Thursday, September 24, 2009

Durga Sasthi

Today is Sasthi, the first day of the Pujas. This is the welcome day for Ma Durga to the pandals and households. This day is special because of the rituals to be followed; unveiling of the face of Ma Durga along with Kalparambho. Some of the other main rituals of the day are Bodhan, Amontron and Adhibas.

Kalparambho, the beginning of the Pujas.

Bodhan, the consecration of Ma Durga’s idol.

Amontron, inviting the Goddess.

Adhibas, sanctifying the stay of the Goddess in the puja area of the pandals.

All the excitement and festive fervour will start from tomorrow which no doubt has something so magical about it.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Celebration Time

At last the waiting is going to be over. The Pujas have come and Ma Durga will be among us within a short time. The pandals are being given the final touches to get the best look along with Ma Durga and her children – daughters Laxmi and Saraswati and sons Kartik and Ganesh. The Lion she rides cannot be forgotten nor the Mahisashur (the Demon) who is defeated at her feet with the help of her Trident.

The year 2009 Durga Puja rituals and celebrations begin on September 24.

A glimpse at the dates of the 5 Puja days:

Sashti – September 24
Maha Saptami – September 25
Durga Astame or Maha astami – September 26
Maha Nabami – September 27
Dashami – September 28

Looking forward to the grand PujoDays.