Durga Puja
Honouring Goddess Durga's victory over the demon Mahishasura across five days of devotion and celebration.
Significance
Durga Puja celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura, symbolising the triumph of good over evil. Observed during Sharad Navratri, the main days run from Shashthi through Vijayadashami (Dussehra), with the Goddess believed to descend to earth and reside among devotees before returning to her celestial abode. Widely celebrated across eastern India — especially West Bengal — Durga Puja is also observed in temples and communities across the country. The Goddess is worshipped as a warrior mother, embodying strength, protection, and maternal compassion.
How temples may observe it
Temples and community pandals install richly decorated idols of Durga, often depicted slaying Mahishasura, flanked by her children Lakshmi, Saraswati, Ganesha, and Kartikeya. Daily rituals include elaborate aartis, chanting of hymns, and offerings of flowers and food. The main days — Saptami, Ashtami, and Navami — feature the largest gatherings and cultural programmes. The festival concludes with Vijayadashami, when the idol is ceremonially immersed. Scale and specific rituals vary significantly by region and temple.
Frequently asked
What is Vijayadashami and how does it relate to Durga Puja?
Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, is the tenth and final day of the festival, marking the Goddess's victory and traditionally observed with the immersion (visarjan) of Durga idols.
Is Durga Puja celebrated the same way everywhere in India?
No — while devotion to the Goddess is universal, the scale, artistic style of idols, and specific customs vary considerably by region, with Bengal's community pandal tradition being especially well known.