| Shashti, the sixth day of the moon when Goddess Durga is welcomed with much fanfare and gusto. Look for the 'Bodhon' rituals when the face of the Durga is unveiled. |
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Saptami features the first day of Durga puja; commencement of rituals; predawn bathing of 'Kola Bow'. |
| Astami - Most important day of Durga Puja; celebrating Durga's victory over Mahishasur; devotees recite the mantras and offer flowers to Devi Durga (pushpanjali) and pray for her blessings; rituals of animal sacrifices; animals are now substituted with 'chalkumro' (type of pumpkin), cucumber and banana. |
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Nabami - Last day of Durga Puja; commencement of 'Sandhi Puja'. Nabami Bhog...Goddess Durga is offered food which is later distributed among the devotees. |
| Sandhi Puja- (108 'Dip' lighted ) End moment of Ashtami and the beginning of Nabami is the time for Sandhi Puja. At this time Devi Durga transformed into Devi Camunda to kill "Chando" and "Mundo", the two generals of Mahishasura. |
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Dashami - is the day when Goddess Durga accompanied with her children sets for Kailash, her husband's abode. With a heavy heart the Bengalis immerse the clay idol of Durga in the sacred. |
| "Sindur Khela" (Vermillion game) - Is a major event of Dashami. Married women apply vermilion to each other and greet each other with sweets. It is in the evening when Goddess Durga is immersed Bengalis greet each other with “Bijoya” greetings and men follow the customary 'Kolakuli' (embrace each other). Durga Puja is a festival, Bengalis celebrate without religious inhibitions. It is more of a socio- cultural celebration that tends to renew kinship with friends and relatives. |
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