| In the morning, several thousands gathered at Belur Math, the global headquarters of the Ramaksrishna Math and Mission, to witness Kumari Puja, a traditional ritual of worshipping the goddess in the form of a little girl. |
| People came from neighbouring states as well as Bangladesh and Singapore to the Math where a five-year-old girl was worshipped by the monks in an atmosphere of piety and serenity. The ritual was conducted at other places as well. |
| The cloudless azure sky provided the perfect backdrop as people, both young and old, fasted to offer 'anjali' to the goddess earlier in the day. |
| The sandhi puja was performed at the confluence of the Mahashtami and Mahanavami, the exact time when as per Puranic tale, Goddess Durga had slain Mahishasura. One hundred and eight lotuses were used and 108 lamps lit during the ritual this evening. |
| Kolkata, known for its potholed streets, looked resplendent amidst the artistically decorated pandals and bright illumination which brought to life the culture, folk art and architecture of different parts of the country. |
| Like last year, theme pavilions seemed to be a favourite topic among the community puja organisers with simulations of old forts and royal palaces coming up at several spots as the citizens marvelled at the detailed work and the painstaking efforts of the artisans. |
| The Santosh Mitra community puja at Sealdah in central Kolkata has hit upon a novel idea to attract the people. The organisers have announced they would gift a diamond ring to anyone who can correctly give the name of the architecture on which the pandal has been modelled on. |
Top Section
Explore Business Standard