Navratri, the auspicious nine-day Hindu festival, is devoted to goddess Durga, whose nine forms are worshipped on nine days. Celebrated this year from October 2-12, the revered festival included prayers, fasting, music, dance, and several other cultural activities.
The key story behind the festival is the battle between Goddess Durga and the demon Mahishasura. She fought a fierce battle with Mahishasura that lasted for nine days and nights and finally defeated the demon. Hence, every year people observe Navratri, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
The sustainable and green Durga Puja pandal by Lalabagan Nabankur Durga Puja committee in Kolkata, made with 8,000 live plants, was a shining example of how one can celebrate traditions while also protecting our planet. (Photo courtesy: X@aseemtrivedi)
US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti visited a Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata and wrote on his X: "Every pandal and home puja tells a story and celebrates the unique spirit and heritage of the season. It’s such an honor to be part of this beautiful blend of art, history, culture, and community. (Photo courtesy: X@USAmbIndia
Federico Salas, Mexican Ambassador to India, went pandal hopping in Kolkata. Sharing his thoughts, he said: "Amazed by the vibrancy, creativity, imagination and devotion of the Durga Puja in Kolkata. Pandal hopping this UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage is intense and exciting bringing together faith, art, culture and history". (Photo courtesy: X@fsalasl)
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee kicked off the Durga Puja festivities in Kolkata by playing dandiya. (Photo courtesy: Mamata Banerjee/Facebook)
Bollywood actress Rani Mukerji at a Durga Puja Pandal in Mumbai. (Photo courtesy: Instagram@yashrajfilmtalent)
Devotees in Belur Math, West Bengal, bid adieu to the goddess by immersing her idol in water. This ritual is called Durga Visarjan, which marks the conclusion of the grand festival of Durga Puja. Immersing the idol of the goddess in water, symbolizes her return to her celestial abode after spending nine days with her devotees on earth. (Photo courtesy: @rkmbelurmath)
