Dhaka, Sep 26 (V7N) – This year, Durga Puja will be celebrated in 33,355 mandap across Bangladesh, including 259 in Dhaka city, according to the Sarvajanin Puja Committee. The announcement came at a press conference held Friday morning at Dhakeshwari Temple ahead of the autumn Durgotsav.

Committee President Jayanta Kumar Deb said the number of puja mandap has increased by about 2,000 compared to last year, when pujas were held in 31,461 mandap across the country.

On recent attacks during preparations, he noted that idols and temples in 13 districts had been attacked, but law enforcement agencies responded quickly and detained most of the miscreants. He said security forces remain on alert to ensure a peaceful festival.

The committee announced that the puja rituals will begin Saturday (Sept 27) with Bodhan and conclude on October 2 with Vijaya Dashami. On the final day, processions will be held across the country, including in Dhaka, from 3 pm.

END/SMA/AJ