Sunday, 13 October 2024
Sunday, 13 October 2024
Vijaya Dashami is a poignant day that marks the end of Durga Puja, a festival celebrating the triumph of good over evil. As devotees participate in rituals filled with joy and reverence, the air is thick with a bittersweet mix of celebration and farewell. The community comes together to express their gratitude, ensuring that the spirit of the goddess lingers until her return next year.
Sindoor khela celebration
Women dressed in traditional white sarees with red borders participate in the Sindoor Khela, a ritual marking the end of Durga Puja where vermilion is smeared as a symbol of married women’s prayers for the long lives of their husbands and the goddess's blessings.
Dhunuchi dance ritual
As part of the closing rituals of Vijaya Dashami, devotees perform the Dhunuchi dance while holding clay pots filled with burning incense. This dance is performed in front of the goddess’s idol to express devotion and gratitude.
The immersion procession begins
Idols of Goddess Durga are prepared for immersion in the river, symbolizing her return to Mount Kailash, the home of her husband, Lord Shiva. The procession signifies the end of the festival as devotees pray for her safe journey.
Unity in devotion
Devotees from all walks of life participate in the immersion processions, carrying the idols to the river as chants of “Asche bochor abar hobe” (She will return next year) echo, symbolizing hope and renewal.
Prayers at the riverbank
As the idol approaches the water, families offer their final prayers to Goddess Durga, asking for her blessings and protection in the coming year, a key moment of reflection and reverence on Vijaya Dashami.
Young participants
Children watch in awe as the idols are carried to the river for immersion. For many, this is their first experience of the emotional significance of the day, which marks both an end and a new beginning.
Final immersion
The idol of Goddess Durga is immersed in the river, symbolizing her departure from the mortal world. This act represents the goddess's promise to return next year, bringing with her hope, protection, and blessings for all.
