Durga Puja, a festival that reverberates with devotion and cultural fervour, is celebrated with great enthusiasm in India, particularly in the state of West Bengal. The festival marks the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura and is observed over a period of five days, culminating in the immersion of the goddess's idol. A significant aspect of Durga Puja is the celebration, distribution of Prasad, and the sumptuous feast that accompanies this grand festival. Bong-Verified Things About Durga Puja Pandal Hopping That Will Make You Want to Be in Kolkata Right Now.

Durga Puja Celebrations

Durga Puja is known for its breathtaking pandals, which are artistic temporary structures that house the idols of the goddess and her family. The central element of Durga Puja is the worship of the elaborately crafted idols of Goddess Durga and her children - Saraswati, Lakshmi, Ganesha, and Kartikeya. The rhythmic beats of traditional drums (dhak) create a mesmerizing atmosphere as well.

Durga Puja Prasad Distribution

Prasad, considered sacred and blessed by the deity, is an integral part of Durga Puja. Devotees receive prasad as a symbol of the goddess's grace and blessings. It is typically offered in fruits, sweets, and other vegetarian delicacies. How can we forget the amazing Khichuri offered to Maa Durga? Khichuri is also served along with mixed vegetables along with begun bhaaja. The prasad is distributed to everyone present at the puja pandals, fostering a sense of community and sharing.

Durga Puja Food and Feast

Durga Puja and food go hand in hand, offering a delectable culinary experience. Bengali cuisine, known for its richness and variety, takes centre stage during the festival. Here are some of the highlights:

Sweets: Bengali sweets like sandesh, rasgulla, and mishti doi are an essential part of the festival. These delectable treats are not only offered as prasad but also savoured by families and friends.

Biryani: Aromatic and flavorful biryani, often prepared with fragrant spices and tender pieces of meat or vegetables, is a popular choice during Durga Puja.

Street Food: The streets of West Bengal come alive with an array of street food stalls. From mouthwatering snacks like puchka (pani puri) and jhalmuri (spicy puffed rice) to kebabs and rolls, the options are endless.

Traditional Dishes: Families prepare traditional Bengali dishes like shorshe ilish (hilsa fish in mustard sauce), macher jhol (fish curry), and various vegetarian specialities like shorshe bhindi (okra in mustard gravy).

Durga Puja is not just a religious festival; it's a celebration of culture, art, and community. The distribution of prasad and the sumptuous feast that follows creates a sense of togetherness and unity among devotees. It's a time to appreciate the goddess's blessings and the rich culinary heritage of Bengal.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 19, 2023 01:45 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).