Bengal Mahanavami - Importance And Rituals Of Durga Puja

Mahanavami is the ninth day of Durga Puja and is celebrated in a grand manner especially in West Bengal. This day is considered to be the holiest day after Mahalaya. Durga Puja of Bengal is world famous and Mahanavami is the culmination of that devotion and celebration. On Mahanavami, Goddess Durga is worshipped in her Mahishasura Mardini form. This day is considered to be a symbol of power and victory. In Bengal, this festival is not just a religious but also an occasion for cultural and social gathering.

Significance

• On this day, Goddess Durga killed Mahishasura and protected Dharma and truth.
• In Bengal, it is called the culmination day of Shakti Puja.
• Devotees perform special rituals, sacrifices and offerings on this day.
• Cultural programs, pandal darshan and devotional music are the specialty of this day.

Pooja Vidhi

• Special Mahanavami havan of Goddess Durga is organized in the morning.
• Nine types of bhog are offered to the Goddess.
• In Bengal, there is also a practice of "balidaan" on this day (now symbolically).
• Devotees pray to the Goddess for strength, courage and victory.
• Grand cultural programs and devotional songs are presented in the evening.