When is Durga Puja 2024? Know Date, Timings and More

Durga Puja is celebrated in almost every part of India. However, the customs, traditions, and ways of celebrating may differ significantly.

While Kolkata remains the epicentre of Durga Puja in India, it is equally celebrated in many other parts of the country, including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Orissa, Jammu and Kashmir, Assam, Karnataka, Bihar, and Chhattisgarh. 

How is Durga Puja Celebrated?

Dance and Songs: Dance, songs, and drama fill the atmosphere during the Navratras. People dress up in traditional costumes and perform Garba and Dandiya raas. Devotees also set up Durga Puja pandals where they worship the Goddess.

Navratras continue for nine days and nights, commemorating Goddess Durga’s fight with Mahisasura to win over him.

Family Gathering: It is a special occasion when families come together to celebrate with their communities and relatives. The Durga Puja pandal is a temporary pavilion where worship rituals and ceremonies occur.

Celebrate Rituals: During the event, people worship the Goddess, make her offerings, and honour her in prayers, songs, and ceremonies. Each day is dedicated to the Goddess in her unique form. Therefore, the rituals also vary.

Traditional Clothing: People dress in their traditional best clothes and participate in live music and dance performances. On the last day, people gather to parade the Goddess's idol through the streets and immerse her in a water body.

It symbolises the end of her sojourn on earth, only to come back the following year.

Durga Puja Rituals

Durga Puja is a major Hindu festival dedicated to the goddess Durga. The rituals and customs associated with Durga Puja vary by region and community, but here are some common elements:

1. Mahalaya: October 3, 2024 (Thursday)

Significance: Marks the beginning of Durga Puja and the arrival of Goddess Durga on Earth.

Rituals: Early morning rituals involve the recitation of hymns and prayers. The creation of the idol of Goddess Durga begins.

2. Shashthi (Sixth Day): October 9, 2024 (Wednesday)

Significance: The festival officially begins with the unveiling and installation of the Durga idol.

Rituals: The idol is bathed (known as “Mahasnan”) and placed on a decorated platform. Offerings are made, and the first day of worship includes the “Bodhon” (invocation) ritual.

3. Saptami (Seventh Day): October 10, 2024 (Thursday)

Significance: The second day of the main festival.

Rituals: The “Kola Bou” or “Baran” ritual involves the worship of a banana tree, which symbolizes the bride. It is adorned and worshipped as a symbol of Durga's arrival.

4. Ashtami (Eighth Day): October 11, 2024 (Friday)

Significance: The day is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga in her fierce form.

Rituals: The “Sandhi Puja” is performed during the junction of Ashtami and Navami. It includes elaborate rituals and offerings. A special “Havan” (sacred fire ritual) is also performed.

5. Navami (Ninth Day): October 12, 2024 (Saturday)

Significance: The day marks the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura.

Rituals: The day is celebrated with “Kumari Puja” (worship of a young virgin girl) and “Bhog” (a special feast) offered to the goddess.

6. Vijaya Dashami (Tenth Day): October 13, 2024 (Sunday)

Significance: Marks the end of Durga Puja and the return of Goddess Durga to her heavenly abode.

Rituals: The Durga idol is taken in a grand procession to be immersed in water (known as “Visarjan” or “Bisarjan”). This symbolizes the departure of the goddess.

Durga Puja Prasad

While each festival day is dedicated to the Goddess in different forms, devotees offer different Prasad to each avatar. These are as follows:

Day 1 – Desi Ghee: Dedicated to Maa Shailputri, devotees offer pure desi ghee on the Goddess's foot to receive the blessing of a healthy life free of illness and diseases.

Day 2 – Sugar: Maa Brahmacharini receives a bhog of sugar to seek her blessings. 

Day 3 – Kheer: Maa Chandraghanta is the ferocious form of Goddess Durga that receives the offering of Kheer as Prasad. 

Day 4 – Malpua: Devotees offer Maa Kushmanda the bhog of Malpua, and pray to bless them with happiness and prosperity.

Day 5 – Bananas: Maa Skandmata receives the offering of bananas and blesses the devotees with good health.

Day 6 – Honey: Honey is offered to Goddess Katyayani as Prasad on this auspicious day.

Day 7 – Jaggery: Devotees offer jaggery and sweets made with jaggery to Maa Kaalratri and also to Brahmins with Dakshina.

Day 8 – Coconut: Goddess Mahagauri receives the offering of coconut and blesses devotees with happiness and prosperity.

Day 9 – Til or Sesame Seeds: Devotees worship Maa Siddhidatri and offer her sesame seeds to seek blessings.

Durga Puja History and Significance

Durga Puja is one of India's most significant religious festivals on a cultural, social, and artistic level. It has several historical instances that mark the tradition's beginning, including the following:

• The festival celebrates Goddess Durga's homecoming when she visits her parents' home with her children annually. 
• Cutting across barriers, the festival dates back to the medieval era in Bengal. Apparently, Lord Rama performed Puja during this time to win over Ravana. 
• In the 16th century, zamindar Raja Kangsanarayan hosted a lavish festival at Taherpur, after which several aristocrats followed suit. 
• In 1606, Bhabananda Majumdar of Nadia organised the Puja to give it an exorbitant form.
• In 1610, Laxmikanta Majumdar performed the first Durga Puja celebration, a family from whom the East India Company acquired three villages – Kalikata, Gobindapur, and Sutanuti. 

From all these instances, Durga Puja has become a major celebration in Bengal and the surrounding areas. 

Celebration of Durga Puja in Different States of India

Indian states celebrate every festival with great pomp and show in their own ways. Durga Puja is celebrated in almost all parts of the country, but the Durga Puja pandal and traditions may differ. Here is a brief overview.

• Kolkata, West Bengal: Durga Puja makes the ‘City of Joy’ an amazing spectacle during the festival. Famous for stunning decorations, exorbitant pandals, dhunuchi dance, spectacular idols, and tasty bhog, Rani Rashmoni Bari and Sovabazar Raj Bari are the best places to experience the festival’s traditional aspects.
• Delhi: The city stays illuminated during the ten-day-long Navratras. During these days, people consume vegetarian food without onion and garlic. Theatre artists show Ramleelas, where they portray Lord Ram's life story and his victory over Ravana. The Ramleela Maidan hosts many musicals, plays, fairs, decorations, lights, and finally, the burning of the Ravana effigy on Dusshera.
• Gujarat: Gujarat gets a vibrant ambience in Navratras. The state looks incredibly colourful, with people wearing Kafni pyjamas, chaniya cholis, dancing Dandiya and Garba on traditional or Bollywood beats. The special evening aartis for Goddess Durga are events you cannot miss in Gujarat. 
• Himachal Pradesh: The state observes this festival differently. Kullu Valley's Dhapur Maidan holds processions and other activities to commemorate Lord Rama's victory over Ravana. The procession reaches the Beas River and concludes with burning grass and wood, signifying Lanka Dahan.

Use a personal loan for travel during Durga Puja to explore these enchanting destinations and create unforgettable memories and free from financial concerns.

How Can A Personal Loan Make Your Durga Puja Celebrations Financially Stress-Free?

Durga Puja, a time of joyous festivities and cultural celebrations, holds a special place in the hearts of millions. However, preparing for this grand event often comes with significant financial responsibilities. From elaborate decorations to festive buffets and new outfits, the expenses can add up quickly, causing stress for many.

This is where a personal loan can be a blessing in disguise. By opting for a personal loan during Durga Puja, you can enjoy the festivities without worrying about your finances. Here's how:

• Fancy Decorations and Art Projects: With a personal loan, you can go all out on making your place look amazing. Think special lights, colorful displays, and cool art installations.
• Yummy Food Extravaganza: Imagine having a top chef cook up a storm during Puja, making sure the food at your celebration is not just good but extraordinary
• Make It Your Own: Use the loan to make everything personal. From custom gifts for your family to arranging unique cultural events.

A personal loan can be your financial lifeline during Durga Puja, helping you create beautiful memories without the burden of financial stress. Make this festive season truly special with the assistance of a well-planned personal loan.

Process to Apply Personal Loan to Make your Durga Puja Celebration Smooth

Personal loans have become a popular financial tool to help individuals meet their various needs and aspirations. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

• Assess Your Needs: Determine how much money you need and what the loan will be used for. This will help you choose the right loan amount and terms.
• Gather Documents: Prepare the necessary documents, including proof of income, identification, and bank statements. Having these ready will speed up the application process.
• Check Eligibility: Before applying for a loan, ensure eligibility with a quick and straightforward eligibility check.
• Apply Online: Fill out the loan application with your chosen lender. Many lenders offer online applications for convenience.
• Application Submit: Carefully review your application for accuracy before submitting it. Inaccurate information can delay the approval process.
• Wait for Approval: Once submitted, the lender will review your application and may ask for additional information. Be patient during this phase.
• Receive Funds: If approved, the lender will disburse the funds directly into your bank account.

Remember to borrow responsibly and within your means to ensure a smooth financial journey. A personal loan can be a valuable tool when used wisely.

Conclusion

Are you planning to celebrate Durga Puja 2023 this year by travelling to different states in India? Don't delay the Goddess's blessings due to a lack of funds. Obtain a Personal Loan with the Hero FinCorp small loan app and spend the money on the festival's celebrations, including travelling, feasting, clothing and gifts. If not from West Bengal, you can use the loan to visit Kolkata, where you can witness Durga Puja in all its pomp and show. Apply now and seek God's special blessings this year.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are there any eligibility criteria for obtaining a personal loan for Durga Puja?

For detailed eligibility criteria you can visit Hero Fincorp, but common requirements include a steady income, a good credit history, and the ability to repay the loan.

2. When will Maa Durga arrive in 2023?

Maa Durga will arrive in 2023 on 14 October, Saturday. People will celebrate her arrival with Mahalaya, a day to celebrate her homecoming each year.

3. Is Durga Puja a National Holiday?

Durga Puja is a public holiday in India. The Durga Puja date in 2023 may differ, but most places observe holidays related to Navratras or Dusshera.

4. How is Durga born?

According to legend, Lord Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva created Durga to slay Mahisasura, the buffalo demon. A collective embodiment of their energies, she is equipped with their male divinities and inner power.

5. Can I apply for a personal loan online for Durga Puja preparations?

Yes, Hero Fincorp provide online application processes for personal loans, offering convenience and quick processing for those looking to secure funds for Durga Puja celebrations.

6. Does Durga have three eyes?

Goddess Durga has three eyes, signifying Agni, Chandra, and Surya. That is why she is also named Triyambake.

7. Which God is Durga wife of?

Usually, Durga is worshipped as celibate, but she is considered a consort of Shiva.

Disclaimer: At Hero Fincorp Limited, we deeply respect and acknowledge the diverse religious beliefs of our customers. We are committed to providing financial solutions that cater to your needs while upholding the highest standards of respect and sensitivity to your religious sentiments. We want to assure you that our personal loan offerings are designed to be entirely secular and devoid of any bias towards or against any religious belief or practice. Our primary goal is to offer you financial assistance without infringing on your personal beliefs. However, in the event that any aspect of our personal loan offerings, communication, or services unintentionally causes offense or hurt to your religious sentiments, please accept our sincere apologies. It is never our intention to cause any discomfort or distress. If you feel that any part of our personal loan services has inadvertently offended your religious beliefs, we encourage you to reach out to our dedicated customer support team. We are committed to addressing your concerns promptly and working to ensure that your experience with us remains respectful and considerate of your religious values.

We appreciate your trust in Hero Fincorp Limited and are dedicated to providing you with personal loan solutions that uphold the principles of diversity, inclusivity, and respect for all religious beliefs.

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