Bengal's Durga Puja starts with Mahashashthi; pandal-hopping begins
Festival begins across pandals with ‘Kalaparamba’ ritual; this will be followed by the ‘Bodhan’ ritual in which Goddess Durga is invoked
Durga Puja pandals witnessed a huge rush of devotees and revellers as ‘Mahashashthi’ rituals marked the formal commencement of West Bengal’s biggest festival on Friday (October 16).
The 'Kalparamba' ritual was conducted to start the festivities, while 'Bodhan ', or invocation of the goddess, will also be held, even as mothers offered prayers for their children's well-being.
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Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, while extending his greetings, said in a social media post: "I convey my best wishes to all on the auspicious occasion of Mahashashthi."
Goddess Durga to be ‘invoked’
'Bodhan' ritual marks the awakening of Goddess Durga for her battle against demon king Mahishasura. The ritual is associated with the legend of Lord Ram invoking the goddess at an unconventional time of the year, a tradition known as 'Akal Bodhan'.
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People, meanwhile, started thronging puja marquees since Friday morning to admire the idols and decorations. From traditional neighbourhood pujas to elaborate themed installations, pandals across Kolkata are expected to draw large crowds over the next few days.