In the Glow of the Goddess: People Celebrate Durga Puja 2025

A single, rhythmic pulse—the beat of the dhak—connects the diverse tapestry of Bangladesh, echoing with equal fervor through the capital's bustling lanes and the quiet villages in rural areas, signaling a shared celebration. The air, thick with the scent of incense, night-blooming shiuli flowers, and anticipation, signals the arrival of Durga Puja, the most significant and vibrant festival for the Hindu community. This annual celebration, steeped in millennia-old mythology, transcends religious observance to become a powerful national testament to resilience, artistic brilliance and profound communal unity. This year, the spirit of the goddess radiates stronger than ever, with celebrations planned at 33,576 mandaps (pavilions) across the country, a significant increase from 31,461 in 2024, illustrating the festival's expanding footprint and unifying power.

The Goddess of Strength and Resilience
At the heart of the five-day festivities is the divine figure of Goddess Durga—ten-armed, radiant, and mounted on a lion. Her legendary victory over the shape-shifting demon Mahishasura is not merely a tale from antiquity; it is a timeless allegory for the triumph of good over evil, of courage over adversity. Durga embodies Shakti, the primordial divine feminine energy that destroys negative forces to restore cosmic balance. She is a symbol of protection, a mother and a warrior whose worship reminds millions of devotees of the inner strength and resilience required to face life's challenges. This narrative of overcoming oppression and standing for justice resonates deeply, making the festival a source of spiritual fortitude.

A Tapestry of Devotion, Art and Culture
The splendour of Durga Puja is a testament to months of careful work, a gradual unfolding of artistry and devotion that reaches its peak during the festival days. In workshops and by the banks of sacred rivers, skilled artisans—often following generations-old family traditions—sculpt the magnificent idols of Durga and her children from clay and straw. Each idol, a masterpiece of devotion and skill, is brought to life with vibrant colours and intricate jewellery. The pandals that house them are no less spectacular, transforming city corners and village squares into temporary cultural landmarks. These structures range from elaborate recreations of mythological temples to contemporary designs that thoughtfully reflect on pressing social and environmental issues, blending the sacred with the socially conscious.

The rituals themselves create a powerful, spiritual rhythm that guides the festival. It begins with Mahalaya, a day of invocation where devotees spiritually awaken the goddess. The following days are marked by the solemn chanting of scriptures, the vibrant offering of flowers (Pushpanjali), and the hypnotic circles of light during the arati ceremony. The air thrums with the constant, heartbeat-like rhythm of the dhak, building energy until the final day, Bijoya Dashami. On this day, the poignant joy of Sindoor Khela, where married women smear each other with vermilion, is followed by emotional processions carrying the idols for immersion. This ritual of farewell (Bisarjan) is a poignant reminder of the cycle of creation and dissolution, blending celebration with a touch of sorrow.

Beyond the spiritual core, Durga Puja is a magnificent celebration of Bengali culture. Mandaps become hubs of cultural activity, with stages hosting dance performances, poetry recitations, and plays. The festival is also a feast for the senses. Community kitchens work tirelessly to prepare bhog—a blessed vegetarian meal of khichuri, labra (mixed vegetables), chutney, and sweets like sandesh and rasgulla—which is served generously to thousands, irrespective of background. This act of sharing food reinforces the bonds of community and embodies the Bengali ethos of hospitality (atithi devo bhava—the guest is god).

A Profound Message of Harmony and Inclusion
Perhaps the most powerful aspect of Durga Puja in Bangladesh is its role as a beacon of communal harmony. The festival effortlessly crosses religious boundaries. It is common to see Muslim neighbours actively participating in the celebrations—helping to organize pandals, providing security, visiting with their families to admire the idols and partaking in the bhog. This spontaneous and warm participation is a living example of the country's cultural pluralism and a heartening affirmation that shared celebrations can foster genuine unity in diversity.

Recognizing the importance of this harmony, authorities have taken comprehensive measures to ensure a peaceful and secure environment for all. The interim government has deployed police, RAB, Ansar and Armed Forces personnel across the country. Simultaneously, civic efforts, such as those by the platform Sampriti Jatra, highlight the importance of proactive measures to safeguard minority communities and preserve the spirit of togetherness. Furthermore, a growing number of Puja committees are emphasizing inclusivity and sustainability, designing eco-friendly idols and ensuring mandaps are accessible to people with disabilities, making the festival a celebration for all.

The Enduring Spirit

As the final processions wend their way to rivers and ponds and the idols are immersed, a sense of serene fulfillment settles over the communities. The goddess returns to her celestial abode, but she leaves behind a powerful message etched in the hearts of the people: that courage, compassion and community will always prevail. In a world often marked by division, Durga Puja 2025 stands as a resolute reminder of the strength found in togetherness. From the bustling streets of the capital to the most remote villages, the festival inspires generations to honour both faith and fellowship. It is, above all, a celebration of power—not only the divine power of the goddess but the enduring strength and spirit of the people when they stand together in harmony.
Shubho Durgotsab to all!
 
Raghu Nath Raha is a
development professional
and a social welfare consultant.