Sharadiya Durga Puja
The Grand Festival of Goddess Durga's Victory
Materials Required
- Idol of Maa Durga
- Ghat (Kalash) & Coconut
- Mango Leaves & Betel Nuts
- Red Cloth & Alta
- Flowers (Lotus, Hibiscus)
- Bel Leaves (Bilva Patra)
- Sandalwood Paste (Chandan)
- Incense, Dhuno, Lamp
- Fruits, Sweets, Naivedya
- Mirror (for Snan)
Step-by-Step Procedure
Bodhan (Shashthi)
The awakening of the Goddess. Kalparambha is performed, and the face of the idol is unveiled.
Saptami Puja (Kola Bou Snan)
Bathing of the Navapatrika (nine plants) representing the Goddess. Pran Pratishtha (infusing life) is done.
Ashtami & Sandhi Puja
The most auspicious day. Kumari Puja is performed. Sandhi Puja marks the transition from Ashtami to Navami.
Navami Puja
Maha Navami Homa (Fire ritual) is performed. It marks the final victory of the Goddess over the demon.
Pushpanjali
Devotees offer flowers (Pushpanjali) to the Goddess daily, chanting mantras seeking her blessings.
Dashami (Visarjan)
Sindoor Khela (smearing vermilion) by married women. The idol is immersed in water (Visarjan).
Durga Pranam Mantra
"Sarva Mangala Mangalye Shive Sarvartha Sadhike
Sharanye Tryambake Gauri Narayani Namostute"
Meaning: I bow to You O Narayani, who is the auspiciousness of all that is auspicious, the Consort of Shiva, who is the means of accomplishing all desires, and who is the refuge of all, the Three-eyed One, and the Fair One.