When is Durga Puja 2024? Know date, timings, rituals, and more about Durgotsava
Durga Puja, also known as Durgotsava, is one of the important Hindu festivals, especially for the Bengali community. This festival, which celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura, is observed with immense devotion across several states of India. Let's explore everything about Durga Puja 2024, including its date, timings, rituals, history, and significance.
What is Durga Puja?
Durga Puja, celebrated predominantly in West Bengal, Assam, Odisha, and Bihar, is a time when communities come together to worship Goddess Durga. While it is a 10-day festival, the last five days¡ªShashthi, Saptami, Ashtami, Navami, and Dashami¡ªare the most significant. Along with Goddess Durga, other deities like Saraswati, Lakshmi, Ganesha, and Kartikeya are worshipped during this period.
Where is Durga Puja Celebrated?
Although Durga Puja is primarily associated with Bengal, it is also celebrated in other states such as Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and more. Over the years, the festival has spread across the globe, uniting communities in festive spirit.
Durga Puja 2024: Date and Timings
Durga Puja 2024 will occur from October 9 to October 12, 2024. The festival aligns with Navratri, a nine-day celebration of the goddess in various forms. Durga Puja 2024 officially begins on Shashthi (October 9th, 2024) and concludes with the immersion of the idol (Durga Visarjan) on Vijayadashami (October 12th, 2024). According to Drink Panchang, Maa Durga will arrive on?Palanquin and departure on?Charanayudha
Below is a breakdown of the key dates and rituals for Durga Puja 2024:
| Durga Puja start date | Wednesday | October 9th |
| Durga Puja end date | Saturday | October 12th |
| Day 1 - Maha Sashti | Wednesday, October 9th | Durga Shashthi Bilva Nimantran, Kalparambha, Akal Bodhon, Amantran and Adhivas |
| Day 2 - Maha Saptami | Thursday, October 10th | Durga Saptami, Kolabou Puja |
| Day 3 - Maha Ashtami | Friday, October 11th | Durga Ashtami, Kumari Puja, Sandhi Puja? |
| Day 4 - Maha Navami | Saturday,?October 12th | Maha Navami, Durga Balidan, Navami Homa |
| Day 5 - Vijaya Dashami | ? Saturday,?October 12th?? | Durga Visarjan, Vijayadashami, Sindoor Utsav |
(Source:?astroyogi.com)
Key Rituals of Durga Puja 2024
Durga Puja is marked by various significant rituals, each adding a unique flavour to the celebration. Here's a look at the main ones:
- Mahalaya: Marks the beginning of Durga¡¯s journey to Earth.
- Shashthi: The day when Durga's idol is unveiled to the public.
- Saptami: The immersion of the sacred banana tree or "Kola Bou" in water, representing a part of Durga¡¯s essence.
- Ashtami: Considered the most important day, it is when Sandhi Puja is performed, marking Durga¡¯s victory over Mahishasura.
- Navami: Devotees offer prayers and perform the Maha Aarti.
- Dashami: The day of Durga Visarjan, when the idol is immersed in water, symbolizing Durga¡¯s return to her celestial abode.
How is Navratri connected to Durga Puja?
Navratri: Navratri, which means "nine nights," is a festival that honours the Hindu goddess Durga in her many forms, such as Shailaputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalaratri, Mahagauri, and Siddhidatri. It celebrates the power of the divine feminine and the victory of good over evil.
Durga Puja: Durga Puja is a festival mainly focused on worshipping Goddess Durga. It is a major celebration in eastern India, especially in West Bengal. The festival marks Goddess Durga's victory over the demon Mahishasura and is celebrated with grand para
The History of Durga Puja
The origins of Durga Puja date back to ancient mythology. The festival commemorates Goddess Durga's battle with the demon Mahishasura. According to legend, Mahishasura received a boon from Lord Brahma that made him nearly invincible. However, Goddess Durga, created with the combined powers of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, took on the formidable task of defeating him.
The battle lasted 10 days, and on the final day, Durga triumphed, beheading Mahishasura. This victory is celebrated as Vijayadashami, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Significance of Durga Puja 2024
Durga Puja 2024 holds immense spiritual significance. It is believed that during this time, Goddess Durga returns to her parental home on Earth with her children. The festival is not just about religious rituals; it's a time for family reunions, cultural celebrations, and community bonding. The sound of the "dhak" (traditional drum), the scent of incense, and the vibrant decorations create a festive atmosphere that resonates with every devotee.
The Traditions and Celebrations of Durga Puja 2024
Durga Puja 2024 will be a blend of traditional rituals and modern celebrations. From visiting elaborate pandals (temporary structures set up for worship) to enjoying cultural performances, the festival brings together people from all walks of life. Food plays a major role in the celebrations, with dishes like khichuri, bhog, and a variety of sweets prepared and shared among family and friends.
On the last day, married women partake in the traditional ritual of Sindoor Khela, where they smear vermilion on each other, celebrating the goddess and womanhood.
(Note: Dates/timings may be subject to change; details mentioned here are as per the information available.)
To stay updated on the stories that are going viral follow?Indiatimes Trending.?
