Durga Pooja

Durga Puja Timeline: Mahalaya: Date: The festival begins with Mahalaya, which usually falls in September or October. Significance: Mahalaya marks the beginning of the Devi Paksha and the end of the Pitru Paksha. It is believed that on this day, Goddess Durga starts her journey to Earth. Maha Panchami: Date: The fifth day of Devi Paksha, which is the day before Maha Saptami. Rituals: The festivities begin with the unveiling of the Durga idol, marking the formal beginning of the Puja. This day involves Kalparambha and Bodhan ceremonies. Maha Saptami: Date: The seventh day of Devi Paksha. Pooja Time: The main rituals start on this day with the Kalparambha, Amantran, and Adhivas ceremonies. Samagri: The items required include flowers, fruits, bel leaves, conch shell, barley seeds, haldi, kumkum, mango leaves, sandalwood paste, etc. Maha Ashtami: Date: The eighth day of Devi Paksha. Pooja Time: Maha Ashtami is considered the most important day. The Sandhi Puja, where the 8th and 9th days meet, is performed during a specific time called "Sandhikshan." Samagri: Offerings include 108 lotus flowers, 108 earthen lamps, hibiscus flowers, jaggery, raw rice, etc. Maha Navami: Date: The ninth day of Devi Paksha. Pooja Time: This day is marked by the Navami Homa and the Ayudha Puja, where tools and implements are worshipped. Samagri: A variety of offerings, including ghee, sesame seeds, barley, sugar, fruits, and more. Vijaya Dashami (Dussehra): Date: The tenth day of Devi Paksha. Rituals: On this day, the idols of Goddess Durga are immersed in water bodies, symbolizing her return to Mount Kailash. Samagri: Various items used during the immersion ceremony, including flowers, sweets, fruits, and sindoor. General Samagri Used During Durga Puja: Flowers: Marigold, jasmine, lotus, and other seasonal flowers. Fruits: Bananas, coconuts, apples, and other fruits as offerings. Leaves: Mango leaves for decoration. Havan Samagri: A mixture of various herbs, roots, and other natural ingredients used in the sacred fire ritual. Sandalwood Paste: Used for applying tilak on the idols. Incense Sticks and Camphor: For creating a fragrant atmosphere. Diyas and Lamps: To illuminate the surroundings during the evening rituals. Prasad: Sweets and fruits offered to the deity and distributed among devotees.