See below for the 2023 Kolkata Navratri Durga Puja Date Timings Bengali, Pooja Significance, How to do Pooja, FAQ, and Details Here.

Celebrating Kolkata Navratri Durga Puja 2023: Dates, Timings, Significance, and More

Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, is known for its grand celebrations and festivals. Among the many festivals celebrated in this vibrant city, Navratri Durga Puja holds a special place. In 2023, the city will come alive with fervor as devotees prepare to welcome Goddess Durga with open arms. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the dates, timings, significance, and rituals of Kolkata Navratri Durga Puja 2023. See below for the 2023 Kolkata Navratri Durga Puja Date Timings Bengali in detail.

2023 Kolkata Navratri Durga Puja Date Timings Bengali in Detail:

The Navratri festival, dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga, is celebrated over nine days. The dates for Navratri in 2023 are from October 10th to October 18th. The most significant days of Durga Puja, known as ‘Mahalaya,’ ‘Shashthi,’ ‘Saptami,’ ‘Ashtami,’ ‘Navami,’ and ‘Vijaya Dashami,’ fall within these nine days.

Here is a breakdown of the key dates and timings for Kolkata Navratri Durga Puja 2023:

• Mahalaya: October 10th, 2023 (Sunday)
  • Mahalaya marks the beginning of Devi Paksha (the fortnight of the goddess) and the end of Pitru Paksha (the fortnight for the ancestors).
  • Traditionally, people wake up early to listen to the Mahalaya recitation by Birendra Krishna Bhadra, which is broadcast on the radio. This event is a precursor to the grand festivities that follow.
• Shashthi: October 15th, 2023 (Friday)
  • Shashthi marks the arrival of Goddess Durga on Earth.
  • On this day, the ritual of ‘Bodhon’ (unveiling the face of the idol) takes place, and the goddess is welcomed with elaborate ceremonies.
  • Devotees also fast on this day and break it after the rituals.
• Saptami: October 16th, 2023 (Saturday)
  • Saptami is the seventh day of the Durga Puja and it would be the 1st day for Triratrotsava.
  • On this day, the goddess is worshipped with rituals, including ‘Saptami Puja’ and ‘Sandhi Puja.’
  • The city streets come alive with beautifully decorated pandals (temporary temples) and artistic idols of the goddess.
• Ashtami: October 17th, 2023 (Sunday)
  • Ashtami is the 8th day in Navaratri, also very popularly known as Durga Astamo and most Sacred for Durga Puja.
  • The day starts with ‘Ashtami Puja,’ which involves the offering of ‘bhog’ (food offerings) to the goddess.
  • In the evening, a grand ‘Sandhi Puja’ takes place, which is believed to be the juncture when Goddess Durga defeats the buffalo demon, Mahishasura.
• Navami: October 18th, 2023 (Monday)
  • Navami is the 9th day and the most penultimate day in Navaratri Days. This day is dedicated to Lakshmi and Durga Puja.
  • Devotees perform ‘Navami Puja’ and offer their prayers to the goddess.
  • In the evening, cultural programs and dances are organized at the pandals, adding to the festive spirit.
• Vijaya Dashami: October 19th, 2023 (Tuesday)
  • Vijaya Dashami, also known as Dussehra, marks the triumph of good over evil.
  • On this day, the idols of Goddess Durga are immersed in rivers or water bodies amidst grand processions and celebrations.

Significance of Kolkata Navratri Durga Puja:

Durga Puja holds immense significance in the hearts of Bengalis and devotees across the world. Here are some key aspects of its significance:

1. Goddess Durga’s Arrival: Durga Puja celebrates the annual homecoming of Goddess Durga, who is believed to visit her maternal home on Earth during this time. Her arrival symbolizes the victory of good over evil.
2. Cultural Extravaganza: Kolkata Durga Puja is not just a religious event but a cultural extravaganza. The city is adorned with artistic pandals, and cultural performances, including dance, music, and drama, are organized throughout the nine days.
3. Community Bonding: The festival fosters a sense of community and togetherness. Neighbors and friends come together to celebrate, decorate pandals, and enjoy the festivities.
4. Artistic Excellence: The idols of Goddess Durga and the pandals are known for their artistic excellence. Artisans work tirelessly to create awe-inspiring sculptures and decorative themes.
5. Culinary Delights: Bengali cuisine is an integral part of Durga Puja celebrations. Traditional dishes like ‘luchi,’ ‘alur dum,’ and ‘mishti’ (sweets) are savored during this time.

How to Perform Navaratri Durga Puja at Home?

Performing Durga Puja at home or in a pandal involves a series of rituals and customs. Here’s a simplified guide on how to perform Durga Puja:

1. Ghatasthapana: On the first day of Navratri, establish a pot filled with water, which symbolizes the presence of Goddess Durga.
2. Kalash Sthapana: Place a Kalash (decorated pot) on the pot and keep it covered.
3. Invoking the Goddess: Recite prayers and mantras to invoke the presence of Goddess Durga into the Kalash.
4. Murti Sthapana: On Shashthi, unveil and install the idol of Goddess Durga in a designated area.
5. Daily Puja: Offer flowers, incense, fruits, sweets, and other items to the goddess daily.
6. Sandhi Puja: On Ashtami, perform the Sandhi Puja, which is the most crucial ritual of Durga Puja.
7. Aarti: Conclude each day with the singing of Aarti and ringing of bells.
8. Vijaya Dashami: On the last day, immerse the idol of Goddess Durga in a water body, signifying her return to her heavenly abode.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

1. Is Durga Puja only celebrated in Kolkata?

• No, Durga Puja is celebrated across India and in many parts of the world, but Kolkata is particularly renowned for its grand celebrations.

2. Can non-Bengalis participate in Durga Puja?

• Yes, Durga Puja is open to people of all backgrounds and religions. It is a festival that promotes inclusivity and welcomes all.

3. What are some traditional Bengali dishes served during Durga Puja?

• Some traditional dishes include luchi, alur dum, cholar dal, shorshe ilish, and a wide variety of Bengali sweets like rasgulla and sandesh.

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