Durga Puja : Hidden Facts, Rituals & Traditions You Didn’t Know

The Spirit Of Durga Puja

Durga Puja became popular in Bengal during the 16th century, growing as a community celebration over time.

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In the 18th century, wealthy zamindars (landlords) organized grand household Pujas, showcasing devotion and social status.

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The idols of Maa Durga are made in Kumartuli, where artisans use a pinch of soil from a courtesan’s doorstep; believed to add sacredness.

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Started by Raja Nabakrishna Deb in 1757, it marked the beginning of aristocratic and elite Pujas in Kolkata.

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On Ashtami, women light 108 oil lampsand offer 108 lotus flowers during the Pushpanjali for divine blessings.

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On Ashtami, women light 108 oil lampsand offer 108 lotus flowers during the Pushpanjali for divine blessings.

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On Dashami, married women smear each other with vermilion (sindoor), praying for long life and prosperity of their husbands.

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Served to all devotees, bhog includes khichuri, labra (mixed veg curry), chutney, and payesh; simple yet divine.

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Durga Puja pandals are designed with unique themes; replicas of temples, palaces or even social messages.

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Durga Puja in Kolkata was inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list in 2021.

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The Spirit Of Durga Puja

BY: PRAGATI UPADHYAY

Durga Puja became popular in Bengal during the 16th century, growing as a community celebration over time.

Origins In Bengal

In the 18th century, wealthy zamindars (landlords) organized grand household Pujas, showcasing devotion and social status.

Zamindar Patronage

The idols of Maa Durga are made in Kumartuli, where artisans use a pinch of soil from a courtesan’s doorstep; believed to add sacredness.

Kumartuli’s Magic

Started by Raja Nabakrishna Deb in 1757, it marked the beginning of aristocratic and elite Pujas in Kolkata.

The Shobhabazar Rajbari Puja

On Ashtami, women light 108 oil lampsand offer 108 lotus flowers during the Pushpanjali for divine blessings.

The 108 Lamps Ritual

On Ashtami, women light 108 oil lampsand offer 108 lotus flowers during the Pushpanjali for divine blessings.

The Dhunuchi Naach

On Dashami, married women smear each other with vermilion (sindoor), praying for long life and prosperity of their husbands.

The Sindoor Khela

Served to all devotees, bhog includes khichuri, labra (mixed veg curry), chutney, and payesh; simple yet divine.

Bhog: The Sacred Meal

Durga Puja pandals are designed with unique themes; replicas of temples, palaces or even social messages.

Themed Pandals: Art On Streets

Durga Puja in Kolkata was inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list in 2021.

UNESCO Recognition