Embracing Divinity: Durga Puja 2023

Durga Puja, a revered festival within the Hindu faith, pays homage to Goddess Durga. The festival during Sharad Navratri in 2023 commences on October 15, culminating on Maha Navami on October 23. The dawn of Mahalaya heralds the beginning of Durga Puja on October 15, leading up to Durga Ashtami/ Dussehra on October 24.

Marking the Dates: Durga Puja 2023

Durga Puja, an embodiment of spiritual fervour among Hindus, graces the hearts of the faithful annually. The festival in 2023 spans from October 15 to October 24, drawing a wave of enthusiasm across states like Bengal, Assam, Odisha, Bihar, Tripura, and Jharkhand. Particularly in Bengal, the five-day celebration encompasses Vijayadashami, Maha Navami, Maha Ashtami, and Shashthi. Durga Puja is a tribute to Goddess Durga’s triumphant struggle against the demon Mahishasura. Vijayadashami, the tenth day, commemorates her victory post a nine-day fierce battle, leading to the grand celebration of Dussehra.

Timings and Observances: Durga Puja 2023

Initiating on the sixth day of Sharad Navratri, Durga Puja unfolds from Friday, October 20, 2023, to Tuesday, October 24, 2023. Every year, intricately crafted pandals host the statues of Maa Durga depicting her victory over Mahishasura, along with deities Lakshmi, Ganesh, Kartikeya, and Saraswati. Devotees adorn new clothing as they assemble to worship Goddess Durga, seeking her divine blessings. This festival encapsulates the eternal message of good's triumph over evil.

Auspicious Moments: Durga Puja Muhurat 2023

The festivity kicks off on Shashthi, the first day of Navaratri, with the unveiling of Goddess Durga idols in homes or community pandals. Over the next five days, devotees indulge in prayers, chanting sacred mantras in honour of the goddess. A special “Kumari Puja” on Maha Navami (ninth day) honours young girls as embodiments of Goddess Durga, followed by a heartfelt farewell to Maa Durga with aarti on Dashami (tenth day), alongside sweet exchanges among loved ones.