Durga Puja.... It's not a festival, it's a religion
>> Saturday, October 4, 2008
Perhaps the biggest time in the life of a general Bengali comes every year during the Pujas. No matter where they stay, no one wants to miss the debonair of the pujas. Also known as Durgotsab, the goddess Durga is worshiped with all grandeur. It refers to all the six days observed as Mahalaya, Sasthi, Maha Saptami, Maha Ashtami, Maha Nabami and Bijoya Dashami. Mahalaya marks the end of Pitri Pokkho ("Fortnight of the forefathers") and the beginning of Debi Pokkho ("Fortnight of Goddess").
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It's a five day annual holiday here during the pujas. Not only it is the biggest Hindu festival in this state, but also the most significant socio-cultural event. The five days of the pujas, starting from Sasthi, accounts for non-stop leg paining scouting of this city. Apart from West Bengal, Durga Puja is also celebrated in many other states of India including Jammu and Kashmir. It is also a major festival in Nepal and Bangladesh.
Pandals and idols inspired by a particular theme has been the hallmark of Sarbojonin or community pujas in Kolkata since the early 1990s. Generally a particular theme is incorporated in the pandals. Popular themes include the early Egyptian culture or the Messopotamian culture. Contemporary themes like Harry Potter or the Titanic has also found its spot. Again pandals are made similar to different ancient temples.
Many Bengali films, albums or books are released to coincide with the Puja. The government gives a fortnight of holidays during the pujas. The time is used in various ways. Many travel various places in India or abroad. But most people like to spend the time in Adda at restaurants or in a puja pandal. Pandal hopping is also a great way to spend time during the pujas. TV and radio channels telecast pujas. Many channels dedicate their full time for the pujas. Various magazines are released during the pujas which highlight the works various upcoming writers.
Durga Puja is in the blood of every Bengalis. Not only the Bengalis, people of all community and religion celebrate this time. Its a new religion all together.
