Durga Puja, one of Bengal’s most awaited festivals, is set to be celebrated with grandeur in 2025. Vibrant festival marks the victory of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. Celebrations bring joy, color, and unity as people come together to worship the powerful Durga Puja idol and participate in cultural events across the state.
Durga Puja Festival Dates and Mahalaya in 2025
Mahalaya
In 2025, Durga Puja festivities will begin with Mahalaya on Sunday, September 21st, marking the start of Devi Paksha, the divine fortnight that celebrates the descent of Goddess Durga to Earth. As per tradition, Bengalis will wake up before dawn to listen to the iconic radio program “Mahishasura Mardini,” a powerful mix of Sanskrit chants and storytelling that invokes the spirit of the goddess.
This day also marks a crucial phase for artisans across Bengal and other parts of India, as they begin applying the final artistic touches to the magnificent Durga idols, preparing them to be installed in elaborately decorated pandals. Mahalaya in 2025 sets the tone for the grand celebrations that will follow, leading up to Shashthi on September 28th, when the main rituals of Durga Puja commence.
Durga Puja Festival Dates
In 2025, the main Durga Puja festival will begin on Shashthi (Sasthi) on Sunday, September 28th, followed by:
- Saptami on Monday, September 29th, 2025
- Ashtami on Tuesday 30th, 2025
- Nabami on Wednesday, October 1st
- The festival will conclude with Bijoya Dashami on Thursday, October 2nd
On Bijoya Dashami, devotees will bid an emotional farewell to Goddess Durga by immersing her idol in rivers or ponds, symbolizing her return to Mount Kailash. This final ritual marks the end of the vibrant five-day celebration, leaving behind a trail of memories, blessings, and hope for her return the following year.
Finding the Best Durga Puja Pandal Near You in Bengal
Bengal is home to some of the most spectacular Durga Puja pandals. If you’re searching for the best Durga Puja pandal near me, several areas in Kolkata and other parts of Bengal are famous for their innovative themes and artistry. You can explore the grand pandals in areas like Bagbazar, Kumartuli, College Square, and Santosh Mitra Square. These pandals showcase not just the stunning Durga idols but also intricate decorations that tell stories of mythology, art, and modern culture.
During the Durga festival, the streets are filled with devotees admiring the idols, participating in traditional dances, and enjoying delicious Bengali food. Many people also offer their prayers during the pooja Durga, asking for the goddess’s blessings for prosperity and well-being.
Durga Puja Idol: Symbol of Strength and Compassion
Durga Puja idol is the centerpiece of the celebration. Crafted with immense care, these idols depict the goddess with ten arms, holding various weapons, and riding a lion as she slays the demon Mahishasura. Craftsmanship of Bengal’s artisans, especially those from Kumartuli, is renowned worldwide for creating breathtaking Durga idols every year.
Devotion to the goddess during the Durga festival is not just a religious act but a cultural celebration of art, music, dance, and food. Idol is adorned with bright colors, ornaments, and flowers, and people gather in large numbers to offer prayers and seek the goddess’s blessings.
Pooja Durga: Rituals and Celebrations
The pooja Durga rituals during the festival are deeply rooted in tradition. Each day of the festival has its own significance. Chanting of mantras, offering of flowers, lighting of lamps, and the blowing of conch shells all add to the spiritual atmosphere of the celebration. Community comes together for Anjali, where devotees offer their prayers to the Durga Puja idol.
Evenings are filled with cultural programs, including traditional dance forms like Dhunuchi Naach and the famous drum beats of Dhaak. Festive atmosphere spreads throughout Bengal as families visit pandals and participate in the vibrant activities of the Durga Puja festival.
Celebrate Durga Puja 2025 with Enthusiasm
As Durga Puja 2025 approaches, excitement is building across Bengal and beyond. Preparations are already in full swing to craft grand pandals, sculpt stunning Durga idols, and set the stage for days filled with devotion, cultural performances, and vibrant celebrations. Whether you’re searching for the best Durga Puja pandal near you or simply want to experience the cultural heartbeat of Bengal, this festival in 2025 promises an unforgettable experience for all.
Mark your calendars for Sunday, September 21st, the day of Mahalaya, which marks the beginning of Devi Paksha and the spiritual prelude to the main festivities. The heart of Durga Puja celebrations will unfold from September 28th (Shashthi) to October 02nd (Bijoya Dashami).
This year’s celebrations are expected to be even more spectacular—blending tradition with creativity, and uniting communities in joy, devotion, and the shared spirit that makes Durga Puja the soul of Bengali culture.
