Dhaka, Oct 02 (V7N) – The rituals of Bijaya Dashami, marking the conclusion of this year’s Sharadiya Durga Puja, began today (Thursday) with puja and anjali offerings. Devotees across Bangladesh observed the day with both joy and sorrow, as the festival of the goddess came to an end.

Since morning, preparations for the farewell of the goddess have been underway at temples and puja mandaps nationwide. Devotees expressed their wishes for happiness, peace, and prosperity, while also thanking the government for ensuring smooth law and order during the five-day festival. Many worshippers said they were able to celebrate the puja without fear or disruption this year.

According to Hindu tradition, Goddess Durga arrived on Mahasaptami riding a horse, symbolizing war and struggle, and will now depart on a dola (palanquin) on Bijaya Dashami, signifying harmony and transition. Scriptures state that as the night ends, the goddess returns to her divine abode at Kailash, leaving behind blessings for her devotees.

The immersion (bisarjan) of Durga idols will take place this evening following the Bijaya Dashami rituals. The auspicious period of Dashami extends from 3:24 pm to 9:57 pm. After immersion, temples will perform Aparajita Puja and seek peace and blessings for the coming year.

For devotees, the farewell of Durga is both spiritual and deeply emotional. Just as in Bengali households, the arrival of a daughter brings joy and her departure brings sorrow, the festival reflects this bittersweet bond—Durga is worshipped not only as a goddess but also as a beloved daughter returning to her home.

END/SMA/AJ