Durga Puja 2024: Durga Puja is one of the most revered and vibrant festivals in India that is the celebration of the victory of good over evil. This festival honours Goddess Durga’s triumph over the demon king Mahishasura, symbolising the end of malevolent forces. With roots deeply embedded in Hindu mythology, Durga Puja brings communities together to worship the Goddess in her various forms over a span of nine days. Devotees participate in prayers, cultural performances, and festive rituals, making it a time of spiritual reflection and joy. Pandals are set up in vibrant designs, housing beautifully crafted idols of Durga, as people gather to offer prayers and seek protection from evil.
If you’re planning to experience the grandeur of this festival, here are some of the top places to witness Durga Puja in all its glory:
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Kolkata, West Bengal:
Kolkota is the most vibrant hub for the Durga Puja celebrations, as the locals believe the Goddess returns home like any married daughter on a visit to her parents. The city bustles around because of these pandals of bamboo, showing intricate decorations and statues of Goddess Durga. Enjoy rituals, performances, and traditional delicacies within famous locations such as Siliguri, Jalpaiguri, Birbhum, and Bankura. Beautiful idols are created by artisans, and festive markets fill up the streets.
Ahmedabad, Gujarat:
In Ahmedabad Durga Puja is combined with the celebration of Lord Rama's victory over Ravana. The whole city is decorated with fireworks, and platforms are created to tell the story of the Ramayana. Dandiya dance nights add to the cultural extravaganza, whereas mainly Laxmi Vilas Palace and Navlakhi Ground host the ancient tradition. With the burning of a big Ravana effigy representing the victory of good over evil.
Katra, Jammu & Kashmir:
Durga Puja in Katra is held at Vaishno Devi Temple. The celebration of the festival is simple yet pure in itself. The temple path is decorated with colorful lights and there are continuous chants all throughout the nine days. The 13 km trek towards the temple will prove to be a divine experience during the nine day festival.
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh:
Durga Puja is a festival for the celebration of the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana in the city of Varanasi. The city is masked with the Ramayana almost at every corner, and children can typically be seen dressed like mythological characters. Being a very crowded place, Varanasi still provides some of the most legitimate spiritual experiences of Indian culture, mainly through its rituals during the festival.
Delhi:
Delhi’s Durga Puja focuses on Lord Rama’s victory, with grand re-enactments of the Ramayana across the city. The celebration ends with the burning of a large Raavan effigy at iconic locations like Ramlila Maidan, Red Fort, and Subhash Maidan. The festival blends culture, devotion, and a rich heritage.