Time-Honoured Rituals Begin
The festivities start on Panchami with bodhon, the ceremonial awakening of Goddess Durga, followed by aamontron on Shashthi. On Saptami, rituals such as adhibas and Nabapatrika snan set the stage for the main puja. Devotees observe Mahaashtami with pushpanjali, fasting, and community feasting, while Navami brings cultural vibrancy with the much-anticipated dhunuchi naach.
Bhog and Sandhi Puja: Heart of the Celebration
Every year, elaborate bhog meals—featuring khichdi or pulao, fried vegetables, and other delicacies—are distributed among devotees from Saptami to Navami. Another highlight is Sandhi Puja, performed at the transition of Ashtami and Navami. Devotees light 108 lamps, offer 108 lotuses, and conduct symbolic sacrifices, often with ash gourds, marking one of the most powerful spiritual moments of the festival.
Historic Pandals Across Patna
Several century-old pujas stand as cultural landmarks. The R-Block Durga Puja, now in its 86th year, began in 1940 and is credited with introducing the famous Chandannagar lighting to Patna. Patna Kalibari in Gardanibagh, which celebrates its 73rd Durga Puja, features both permanent metal idols and temporary clay idols created for the festival. This year, the committee plans a grand bhandara on Navami, with bhog prepared from over four quintals of rice and pulses.
Patna Recreation Club is marking its 62nd Durga Puja, known for its cultural programmes and performances. Meanwhile, the Sarbajanin Durga Puja in Mithapur B area, now in its 77th year, remains a community affair rooted in family tradition. Residents continue to preserve its single-frame chalchitra idol, a rare practice today.
A Blend of Faith and Festivity
Durga Puja in Patna is more than a religious celebration—it is a social and cultural carnival. From morning rituals to evening cultural programmes, the festival provides a platform for unity and community bonding. For many Bengalis in the city, these pujas are not just about worship but also about nostalgia, cultural pride, and passing traditions to the next generation.
As the beats of the dhak reverberate across the city, Patna prepares to welcome Goddess Durga, marking yet another chapter in its rich cultural tapestry. For devotees and visitors alike, the pujas promise devotion, food, dance, and memories to cherish.
