Dhaka, Oct 09 (V7N) — After the scorching summer and monsoon rains, Uma , the embodiment of Durga , returns to the world, filling it with joy and hope. With the arrival of Durga, the Asuras are driven away, and the stage is set for the celebration of Sur (gods) and Asura (demons) . As the anticipation built from Mahalaya draws to a close, the curtain has risen on Shashthi Puja , marking the beginning of the grand festival of Durga Puja , the largest celebration for the Sanatan community.

This year, the goddess is set to make her abode on Wednesday, following the traditional Bodhan ceremony, where the goddess is worshiped under the bell tree. Mother Durga, along with Ganesh , Kartik , Lakshmi , and Saraswati , will remain overnight, and on the morning of Saptami , she will officially arrive at her father’s house, symbolizing her descent to Earth.

This year, Durga arrives on a dola (palanquin), which, according to ancient scriptures, signifies potential unrest. The phrase "Dolayang Makrang Bhavet" translates to predictions of pestilence, natural disasters, and possible loss of life. However, the goddess departs on a gaja (elephant), which is considered an auspicious sign. Her departure by elephant is believed to bring peace, happiness, and prosperity. It symbolizes balance in nature, ensuring that only the necessary amount of rain will fall, benefiting the world.

According to the Puranas , the gods are awake during the Uttarayana (the sun’s northward movement), which spans six months and is considered a day for the gods. Conversely, during the Dakshinayana (southward movement), the gods are said to rest, and this period is their night, making it an inopportune time for worship. The goddess, in this case, is awakened for worship through the Akal Bodhan ceremony, marking the untimely awakening of Durga.

This tradition dates back to the legendary Rajarshi Shuntha , who first worshiped the goddess as Adyashakti Mahamaya . Later, during his campaign against Ravana , Ramachandra performed a premature worship of Durga, known as Akal Bodhan , to seek her blessings in defeating the demon king. This ritual remains integral to Durga Puja to this day.

In another legend, Brahma and Indra guided Rama to worship Durga. During Rama's preparation , an 8-10-year-old girl, playing under a bel tree , was revealed to be the goddess herself. This is why Durga is worshipped under the bel tree before her awakening, maintaining the ancient tradition of Bodhan .

As Shashthi dawns, the streets are alive with vibrant celebrations. Children, clad in new clothes and shoes, fill the air with laughter, while the scent of Shiuli flowers permeates the atmosphere. The neighborhoods are abuzz with preparations for Barwari Puja , the community-wide celebrations rooted in ancient traditions. In homes and Barwari Mandaps , artisans put the finishing touches on the idols and decorations, working tirelessly to ensure the grandeur of the festival.

Though the festival officially lasts for five days, culminating in the Kojagari Lakshmi Puja , the spirit of Durgotsava lingers long after, filling devotees' hearts with joy.

According to the Bangladesh Puja Celebration Parishad , the number of puja pavilions in Dhaka has increased this year, although there has been a slight decrease nationwide. In total, 31,461 temples and pavilions across the country will celebrate Durga Puja, down from 32,408 last year.

As Durga descends to Earth, may she bring peace, prosperity, and the removal of all sorrows. Let the memories of Durgotsava remain as fragrant as Shiuli flowers, filling the air with love, joy, and hope.

END/MSS/AJ