Durga Puja

This painting showcases the victory of good over evil. Celebrating it through centuries old rituals and practices, this is Bengal's biggest festival.

Goddess Durga was created to combat the evil demon Mahishasura. Mahishasura did penance for many years and asked the god of creation Brahma for immortality. Brahma refused to grant his wish and rather agreed upon Mahishasura's wish to be killed only by a woman. He thought women being, weak and submissive, could not kill him.

Being practically immortal, he started tormenting and torturing the three worlds. Defeated by Mahishasura's immense strength, the gods came to the holy trinity of Sanatana Dharma - Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva for the rescue. They came together to create a powerful female form with ten arms.

When Durga emerged from the waters of the holy Ganga as a spirit, she was given a physical form by all the gods put together. She is also known as ‘Mahamaya’, the Great Mother of the Universe, who ensures creation, preservation and destruction of evil forces in the universe. Basically a female counterpart of the holy Trinity.

Armed like a warrior, the goddess rode into battle on a lion. After a fierce combat that lasted ten days, Durga finally slew the demon king with her trident. Heaven and earth rejoiced at her victory and peace was once again restored to the three worlds. She is also identified by the name of "Durgatinashini". Her name indicates her role as the one who protects her devotees and removes evil from the world.

Bengalis indulge themselves with Sindur Khela where married women apply vermillion on each other's face and bangles. Men and women both perform dhunuchi dance.