September 29th 2025.
The city of Cuttack in Odisha is famous for its stunning Durga Puja celebration. One of the highlights of this festival is the intricate gold and silver filigree work that adorns the Goddess and her idols. It is a true display of exceptional craftsmanship.
Monday is a special day in the Durga Puja calendar, known as Maha Saptami. The significance of this day lies in the belief that Goddess Durga descends to earth on this day. The Vedic rituals begin with the priests chanting sacred mantras to invoke life into the idol. This is followed by the ghata sthapana, a ritual where the Goddess is symbolically welcomed into the pandal. The eyes of the deity are then drawn, marking the official start of the Saptami Puja.
Ranjan Bishwal, a member of the Haripur Pithapur Puja Committee, shared, "Our Durga Puja committee has a rich history and tradition. The gold and silver filigree work on the idol is a testament to our skilled artisans. This year, we have dedicated our pandal to Operation Sindoor, in honor of the families who have lost their loved ones. We pray for their well-being and long life."
Cuttack Mayor Subhash Singh also expressed his excitement for the festival, saying, "We make unique arrangements for Durga Puja every year. It is a collective effort, with all political parties and religious groups coming together to make it a grand success. People from all walks of life, from different religions and communities, join in the celebrations. It is a wonderful experience to be a part of it. Visitors from all over the country come to witness the grandeur of our Durga Puja."
Maha Saptami holds great significance as it marks the beginning of Goddess Durga's battle against the demon king Mahishasura. This symbolizes the victory of good over evil. The battle culminates on Vijaya Dashami, the tenth day of the festival. On this day, Goddess Durga is worshipped in her fierce form of Kaalratri, representing the ultimate power of Adi Shakti. It is believed that worshipping her helps remove fear, negativity, and obstacles from one's life.
While Durga Puja is celebrated across the country, Maha Saptami is particularly important in eastern India, including states like West Bengal, Assam, Odisha, and Tripura. The pandals are adorned with magnificent idols, beautiful decorations, and cultural performances. Families come together for traditional feasts, prayers, and to strengthen their bonds with the community. Devotees all over India observe fasting, recite mantras, and wear auspicious colors dedicated to this auspicious day. The spirit of Durga Puja brings people together, transcending all barriers and uniting them in the celebration of good over evil.
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