Durga Puja – The Grand Festival of Bengal
Introduction:
Durga Puja is one of the biggest and most popular festivals in India, especially in West Bengal. It is celebrated to honor Goddess Durga, who symbolizes power and victory over evil. The festival lasts for five days—Shashthi, Saptami, Ashtami, Navami, and Dashami.
How It Is Celebrated:
Pandal Hopping: Beautifully decorated pandals (temporary temples) are set up in different places, where the idol of Goddess Durga is worshipped.
Traditional Rituals: People offer prayers (Pushpanjali), perform Aarti, and chant mantras. On Maha Ashtami, Sandhi Puja is performed.
Cultural Programs: Dance, music, and drama performances are held near puja pandals.
Feasting: People enjoy delicious food like khichuri, luchi, alur dum, sweets (rosogolla, sandesh), and more.
Sindoor Khela: On Dashami, married women play with vermilion (sindoor) before bidding farewell to the goddess.
Visarjan: On the last day, the idol is immersed in rivers or lakes with grand processions, music, and dance.
Why I Love This Festival:
Durga Puja is a time of joy, family gatherings, and celebration. The streets are filled with lights, music, and happiness. Everyone wears new clothes and enjoys the festive spirit. It is my favorite festival because of its vibrant atmosphere, cultural richness, and delicious food.
(Draw or paste a picture of Goddess Durga, pandals, or people celebrating the festival.)