The Festival
On Dussehra day, people worship weapons (especially the Rajput
community). Mother Goddess has been worshipped during the preceeding
Navratras and She is the Epitome of 'Fight against Evil'. People in all
parts of India, burns the effigy of demon Ravana and makes merry. Fairs
and sweet distribution marks the celebration of Dussehra.
Dussehra & Durga Puja
When all of India celebrates Dussehra (Lord Rama's victory over demon
Ravana), the people of West Bengal celebrates Durga Puja (Maa Durga's
victory over demon Mahisasura). According to the Bengalis, Durga stays
for four days - Shashti, Saptami, Ashtami and Nabami (of the same month)
along with her children, Ganesha, Laxmi, Kartik and Saraswati and sets
for her husband's abode on Vijaya Dashami, (the Dussehra Day).
On the end point of Ashtami and beginning of Nabami day (known as
Sandhi Khon, meaning the union of two times) Maa Durga killed the
terrible demon Mahishasura, and hence the day is recognised a
Mahaashthami day, the most auspicious day in the Hindu calendar year.
Durga Puja is the most important festival of Bengalis. The 5 day rituals
accompanied with dhak, dhunuchi naach and shiuli, is celebrated with
much fun & frolic.
