With the setting of autumn comes festive time, with people across India engrossed in the festival cheer. After the nine-day nationwide celebration of Navratri, devotees gear up for Diwali, also known as Deepavali – the festival of lights. While most people worship Goddess Lakshmi on Amavasya tithi during Diwali, individuals in West Bengal, Assam and Orissa worship Goddess Kali. The new moon day is considered highly auspicious on the festival of Diwali. Kali Puja, also known as Shyama Puja or Kali Pujo, holds great significance and is observed with immense devotion and enthusiasm in the eastern states of India. So, when is Shyama Puja 2024? Kali Puja 2024 falls on a Thursday, October 31. Ahead of the festivity, we bring you Kali Puja 2024 date and time in the Bengali calendar, Nishita time, Amavasya tithi, auspicious rituals and significance to worship Goddess Kali, the fierce form of Goddess Durga. When Is Bhoot Chaturdashi 2024? Know Kali Chaudas Date, Chaturdashi Tithi, Puja Timings, Muhurat, Rituals and Significance To Observe the Day on the Eve of Kali Pujo. 

Kali Puja 2024 Date and Time: Shyama Puja in Bengali Calendar

According to Drikpanchang, the Bengali Kali Puja 2024 falls on Thursday, October 31. The Kali Pujo 2024 Nishita time starts at 11:57 PM on October 31 and continues until 12:47 AM on November 1. The Amavasya tithi begins at 03:52 PM on October 31 and ends at 06:16 PM on November 1.

Kali Puja History, Significance and Rituals

The name ‘Kali’ is said to have derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Kal,’ meaning ‘time.’ Goddess Kali, also known as Mahakali, Kalika and Bhadrakali, is believed to be the supreme of all powers. Kali Puja is observed on New Moon Day (Dipannita Amavasya) of the Hindu month of Kartik, coinciding with Lakshmi Puja of Diwali. As per Hindu scriptures and legends, the origin of Kali Puja can be traced back to the 16th century, when Sage Krishnananda Agamavagisha first initiated the observance of Kali Puja. The worshipping became popular in the 19th century when ardent Goddess Kali devotee Sri Ramkrishna became prominent. One famous legend associated with the festival is the story of Goddess Kali slaying the demon Raktabija. The victory of good over evil is also celebrated during the festival of Kali Pujo. Diwali 2024 Full Calendar With Dates of Dhanteras, Laxmi Puja and Bhai Dooj: When Is Deepawali Starting This Year? Know All About 5-Day 'Festival of Lights'.

Kali Puja holds immense significance for the devotees. It is believed that by worshipping her, one can overcome obstacles, attain spiritual liberation, and conquer negativity within oneself. It is a devotional time for self-reflection, spiritual guidance, introspection, and seeking the divine blessings of Goddess Kali. The devotional worshipping of Goddess Kali is a reminder that no matter how daunting the challenges can be, Maa Kali’s blessings are with us, helping us overcome them.

Goddess Kali is worshipped with tantric rites and mantras on the night of the new moon. She is offered red hibiscus flowers, sweets, rice and lentils. Pandals are ornately decorated and devotees gather to attend the Kali Pujo dressed in traditional new clothes. A lamp is lit and aarti is performed during the puja. Once the grand puja commences, Maha Aarti is performed and fireworks light up the night sky, marking the beginning of the Diwali celebration.

Kali Puja is a significant festival among the Hindus. Goddess Kali is worshipped in two different forms – Shamshan Kali (the idols are in black colour) and Shyama Kali (the idols are in blue colour). Both the colours symbolise the limitless sky and Maa Kali’s limitless powers.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 18, 2024 12:03 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).