Durga Puja, a cherished and deeply spiritual festival among Hindus, holds immense religious significance. It marks the triumph of good over evil, as it commemorates the defeat of the demon king Mahishasur. This spectacular festival is celebrated with unmatched grandeur and enthusiasm in regions such as West Bengal, Assam, Tripura, Odisha, and Bihar. The 2024 Durga Puja festivities will span five glorious days, commencing on the Shashti Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashwina and culminating with Dussehra and Durga Visarjan on the Dashami Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the same month of Ashwina. In 2024, Durga Puja will commence on October 9 and conclude on October 13.
Durga Puja is a meticulously planned event, and here are the key dates and timings for the various phases of this spiritual extravaganza:
| Day | Tithi Start | Tithi End |
|---|---|---|
| Maha Panchami (Preparation Day) | October 8, 2024 - 01:12 AM | October 9, 2024 - 12:31 AM |
| Maha Shashti (Bondhon) | October 9, 2024 - 12:31 AM | October 10, 2024 - 11:24 PM |
| Maha Saptami (Anjali) | October 10, 2024 - 11:24 PM | October 11, 2024 - 09:53 PM |
| Maha Ashtami (Kumari Puja) | October 11, 2024 - 09:53 PM | October 12, 2024 - 07:58 PM |
| Maha Navami (Dhunuchi Dance and Sandhi Puja) | October 12, 2024 - 07:58 PM | October 13, 2024 - 05:44 PM |
| Vijaya Dashami (Sindur Khela, Visarjan, and Bijoya) | October 13, 2024 - 05:44 PM | October 14, 2024 - 03:14 PM |
| Durga Visarjan Shubh Muhurat | October 14, 2024 - 05:44 AM | October 14, 2024 - 08:03 AM |
Durga Puja stands as a paramount festival in the Hindu calendar, celebrated with immense splendor and devotion. It is a time when devotees welcome the idol of Goddess Durga into their homes on the sixth day of Navratri, commencing a five-day period of fervent worship that culminates in Durga Visarjan on Vijayadashami. Homes are adorned, and loved ones gather to partake in the joy and festivities.
In Bengal, Mahishasur Mardini, the fierce form of Goddess Durga, is venerated during these days, with various rituals and pujas performed. Women prepare delectable delicacies and offer bhog prasad to Maa Durga. Additionally, idols of Goddess Laxmi, Saraswati, and Lord Ganesha grace the households. The grand culmination of Durga Visarjan includes the celebrated Sindoor Khela, where married women offer vermillion to Goddess Durga and, in a gesture of goodwill, apply it to one another, bestowing blessings of happiness and fortune.
"Jayanti Mangala Kaali Bhadrakaali Kapalini, Durga Kshama Shivadhatri Swaha Swadha Namostute..!!"
"Sarva Mangal Maangalyaye Shive Sarvartha Sadhike, Sharanyaye Triyabike Gauri Narayani Namostute..!!"
When will Durga Puja 2024 take place?
Durga Puja 2024 is expected to start on October 9, 2024, with Maha Sashthi and will end on October 13, 2024, with Bijoya Dashami, when the idols are immersed in water as part of the farewell ritual.
How is Durga Puja celebrated in 2024?
Durga Puja is celebrated with great devotion through prayers, cultural performances, and community gatherings. People worship Goddess Durga, enjoy pandal hopping, and partake in festive meals while dressing in traditional attire. The festival highlights the victory of good over evil and includes elaborate rituals each day.
Where can I experience the best Durga Puja in 2024?
The most vibrant Durga Puja celebrations are held in Kolkata, West Bengal. Major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore also host grand pandals and cultural events. Visitors can enjoy these spectacular displays of devotion, art, and tradition.