When is Durga Puja 2023? Date, history, significance, rituals, bhog

Durga Puja, an exuberant festival celebrated with immense zeal, is approaching its grandeur in 2023. According to Drik Panchang, this five-day celebration, starting on October 20 and concluding on October 24, marks the triumph of good over evil. According to Hindu mythology, Durga, the embodiment of divine power, defeated the demon king Mahishasura, combining the forces of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva.

Navratri: A Journey of Devotion

During the nine days of Navratri, devotees worship the nine avatars of Durga, each representing a unique facet of the goddess's strength. From Shailaputri to Siddhidatri, these avatar symbolise the relentless fight against evil forces. Devotees observe fasts on either all nine days or in pairs, seeking the blessings of Durga, who is believed to travel from Devlok to Earth, alleviating the troubles of her followers.

(Devotees worship the nine avatars of Durga | Image: Pexels)

What is the history of Navratri?

The festival's history narrates the demon Mahishasura's pursuit of invincibility, granted by Lord Brahma. The gods, ousted from heaven, united to worship Adi Shakti. The divine light emanating from this puja gave rise to Maa Durga. The ensuing ten-day battle culminated in the goddess slaying Mahishasura, commemorated as Vijaya Dashami.

How is the festival celebrated across India? 

Durga Puja transcends regional boundaries, attracting fervour in states like Odisha, Assam, Tripura, Bihar, and Jharkhand. Pandals, adorned with artistic brilliance, become cultural hubs. Devotees immerse the goddess' idol in the Ganges during Durga Visarjan, marking the end of the festival. The celebrations continue with Vijaya Dashami or Dussehra, rejoicing in the victories of Durga over Mahishasura and Rama over Ravana.

(Vijaya Dashami is a day of victories of Durga over Mahishasura | Image: Pexels)

Rituals and Bhog that's followed widely

The festival brings communities together, mirroring the spirit of camaraderie seen in Ganesh Chaturthi. Prasad, offered to the goddess, turns into a communal feast featuring regional delights like chops, puchka, kathi rolls, mishti, and more. Stalls showcasing diverse cuisines from across the country amplify the festival's gastronomic charm.

Durga Puja, deeply entrenched in myth and culture, transcends religious boundaries, offering a spectacle that unites communities in celebration of divinity's triumph over malevolence.