West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday asserted that for Bengalis, Durga Puja is more than a festival and is the heartbeat of the identity, art and heritage of the community

Durga Puja celebrates the triumph of Goddess Durga over evil. Each day has a significance, and wearing specific colours enhances the festivities and spirituality during this vibrant festival.

She inaugurated 10 Durga Pujas in south Kolkata amid chanting of 'shlokas' (hymns), beating of 'dhaak' (drums) and blowing of conch shells.

The festival this year spans from October 8 to 13, with rituals such as Bodhan, Maha Saptami and others. Read to know more.

Ashtami Puja, which falls on the eighth day of Durga Puja, is a significant Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil. On this day, worshippers make offerings of the favoured local bhog recipes to goddess Durga.

Durga Puja, the holy festival dedicated to the powerful deity Maa Durga, is here. During the month of Ashvin, the country celebrates its Hindu festival, significantly special among the Bengalis. On this auspicious occasion,

Many devotees observe fasts during Navratri. The fasting practices vary, with some individuals consuming only fruits and vegetables, while others may abstain from all food.

This year, Sharad Navratri begins on October 3rd and will continue for nine days. During this time, devotees observe a nine-day fast with complete devotion. Women, in particular, worship the Mother Goddess with great reverence.