Durga Puja, one of India’s most vibrant and spiritually significant festivals, is a time when the air fills with devotion, color, and cultural splendor. Celebrated with unmatched enthusiasm, especially in West Bengal, Odisha, Assam, Tripura, and across India, Durga Puja 2025 honors the divine feminine energy—Goddess Durga—symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
This much-awaited festival typically falls in the months of September-October (Ashwin in the Hindu calendar) and spans five to ten days of grandeur, rituals, art, and community gatherings. From the majestic Durga idols crafted by skilled artisans to the elaborately decorated pandals and soulful beats of dhak, every element of Durga Puja reflects India’s rich cultural tapestry.
Beyond its religious significance, Durga Puja is also a showcase of creativity, fashion, food, and music. It brings families and friends together, ignites local economies, and attracts tourists from across the globe. The festival concludes with Vijaya Dashami, symbolizing the immersion of Durga idols and the eternal message of hope and renewal.
Whether you are planning to witness Durga Puja 2025 in Kolkata or exploring celebrations in your city, this guide will help you discover the best places, rituals, and must-know details to make the most of this extraordinary festival.
Read More : Best Places for Durga Puja Celebrations in India
When is Durga Puja Celebrated?
Durga Puja in 2025 will be celebrated from Sunday, September 28 to Thursday, October 2. This five-day festival marks the homecoming of Goddess Durga and is observed with immense devotion, grandeur, and cultural festivities across India, especially in West Bengal, Assam, Tripura, and Odisha. The celebration begins with Shashthi and culminates on Vijaya Dashami, when beautifully crafted Durga idols are immersed, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Significance of Durga Puja
Durga Puja is not just a festival but a way of honouring the divine feminine energy. It is believed that Goddess Durga descends to the earth during this time to bless her devotees. The festival symbolises the victory of good over evil and reinforces the belief that no matter how powerful darkness is, light will always triumph. Each ritual and celebration during the festival has a deeper meaning, connecting devotees to their spiritual roots.
The Legend Behind Durga Puja
According to Hindu mythology, Mahishasura was a demon known for his deceptive traits and ability to shape-shift. His tyranny caused chaos and suffering, prompting the divine intervention of Goddess Durga. After a fierce battle that lasted for days, the Goddess finally defeated Mahishasura, restoring peace and order. This story has been passed down through generations, making Durga Puja one of the most revered festivals in India, especially in West Bengal.
Read More : Durga Puja Celebration in West Bengal
Durga Puja’s Evolution Over the Years
Historically, Durga Puja was celebrated in an intimate setting within households, mainly by the wealthy and aristocratic families. Over time, the festival evolved into a community affair, with public pandals and processions becoming the norm. In modern times, Durga Puja is not only a religious event but also a platform for showcasing art, culture, and creativity. Every year, new themes and concepts are introduced in the pandals, making each celebration unique.
Major Attractions Of Durga Puja
Durga Puja is celebrated with grandeur across India, but the enthusiasm reaches its peak in West Bengal, particularly in Kolkata. The city transforms into a vibrant hub of activity, with beautifully decorated pandals, traditional rituals, and cultural performances. Here are some of the main attractions and rituals of Durga Puja 2025:
1. Durga Puja Procession
The celebrations begin with a grand procession on the sixth day of Navratri, when idols of Goddess Durga are brought to homes or community pandals. The idols, intricately decorated with flowers, vermilion, clothing, and jewellery, are accompanied by the idols of Lord Ganesha and other deities. The festive atmosphere is heightened by the sound of conch shells and drums, creating a spiritual ambience that envelops the entire city.
2. Pran Pratishta Ritual
The Pran Pratishta Ritual, observed on the seventh day, marks the invocation of Goddess Durga’s presence in the idol. A small banana plant, called Kola Bou, is bathed in the river and dressed in a red sari before being placed near the idol. This symbolises the welcoming of the Goddess into the hearts and homes of devotees.
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3. Chokkhu Daan
Chokkhu Daan is a significant ritual during which the eyes of the Goddess are painted, symbolising the completion of the idol. This ritual is performed on Mahalaya, a day dedicated to worshipping and welcoming Goddess Durga to the earth. It is a deeply spiritual moment that signifies the awakening of divine power
4. Kola Bou Bath
The Kola Bou Bath is another traditional ritual performed early in the morning on the seventh day of the festival. The banana plant, considered a representation of Goddess Durga, is bathed and dressed in a saree. It is then carried in a procession, accompanied by prayers and offerings
5. Grand Procession
The sixth day, also known as Shashti, marks the beginning of the public celebrations. Beautifully adorned idols of Goddess Durga, along with Saraswati, Lakshmi, Kartikeya, and Ganesha, are taken out in a grand procession to elaborately decorated pandals. This is the time when the entire city lights up with joy and excitement
6. Dashami : The Farewell Ritua
The final day of Durga Puja, also known as Dashami or Vijayadashami, is marked by the immersion of the Goddess’s idol in a water body. Thousands of devotees accompany the idol to the river, bidding farewell to the Goddess as she returns to her heavenly abode. It is an emotional moment filled with chants, prayers, and hopes for her return next year.
7. Pandal Hopping
During Durga Puja, pandal hopping is a popular activity where people visit various themed pandals across the city. Each pandal showcases unique themes, ranging from mythological stories to contemporary issues. Kolkata alone boasts around 45,000 pandals, making it a spectacular sight to behold during the festival.
City-Wise Guide to Durga Puja Celebrations Across India
| Region/City |
Celebration Highlights |
Special Rituals & Customs |
Noteworthy Attractions |
| Kolkata, West Bengal |
Grandest celebrations with artistic pandals, theme-based decorations, and cultural programs |
Pushpanjali, Sandhi Puja, Sindoor Khela, Idol immersion |
Iconic pandals at Bagbazar, Kumartuli, College Square |
| Delhi |
Large-scale Durga Puja in CR Park, community gatherings, cultural performances |
Traditional Bodhon, Aarti, Dhunuchi Naach |
Vibrant Bengali food stalls, live music, theater |
| Mumbai |
Community-based celebrations by Bengali associations, including Bandra, Powai, Navi Mumbai |
Rituals similar to Kolkata with cultural emphasis |
Cultural shows, Bengali cuisine, idol processions |
| Assam (Guwahati) |
Massive participation with unique local customs and beautifully decorated pandals |
Special prayers for peace and prosperity |
Traditional Assamese music and dance performances |
| Tripura (Agartala) |
Traditional and devotional puja with community involvement |
Traditional idol-making, community feasts |
Artisanal idols and indigenous cultural elements |
| Odisha (Cuttack, Bhubaneswar) |
Known for silver and gold filigree work on idols (Chandi Medha) |
Rich rituals with an emphasis on craftsmanship |
Silver-themed pandals and cultural fairs |
| Bihar & Jharkhand |
Durga Puja celebrated in cities like Patna, Ranchi with colorful pandals and fairs |
Ritualistic worship, cultural events |
Folk performances, food stalls, and processions |
| Southern India (Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai) |
Bengali communities celebrate in traditional style with growing popularity in urban centers |
All major rituals followed, including Sindoor Khela |
Fusion cultural events, food, and music |
Exchanging Gifts and Feasting
Durga Puja is not just about rituals and prayers; it is also a time for exchanging gifts and enjoying delicious feasts. Friends and family gather to share sweets, traditional delicacies, and warm wishes. The festive spirit is further enhanced by cultural performances, fairs, and events that take place throughout the city.
How to Reach Kolkata, for Durga Puja 2025
If you wish to experience the grandeur of Durga Puja 2025, Kolkata is the best destination to witness the celebrations. The city is well-connected by air, rail, and road
By Air : Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, located about 14.3 km from the city centre, is the nearest airport. You can book flights in advance to secure your travel during the festive season.
By Train: Kolkata has two major railway stations—Howrah and Sealdah—both well-connected to major cities across India.
By Road: National Highways NH2 and NH6 connect Kolkata to nearby towns and cities, making road travel a convenient option.
Kolkata’s streets come alive during Durga Puja, with bright lights, joyous faces, and an infectious energy that is hard to describe in words. Whether you are a local or a visitor, Durga Puja 2025 promises an unforgettable experience of spirituality, culture, and celebration.
In conclusion, the Durga Puja festival is more than just a religious event—it is a celebration of life, resilience, and divine power. Make sure to mark your calendars for Durga Puja 2025 and witness the magic of this iconic festival in the vibrant city of Kolkata.
This year, plan a trip to Kolkata and witness grand celebrations associated with the Durga Puja festival. Adotrip.com offers exciting flight deals, hassle-free bus and train ticket bookings, hotel reservations and exciting holiday packages. Reach out to us and plan a memorable trip to Kolkata.
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Frequently Asked Questions Related to Durga Puja 2025
Q1: When is Durga Puja 2025 celebrated?
A1: Durga Puja 2025 will be celebrated from Sunday, September 28 to Thursday, October 2, 2025. The festival spans five days, starting with Shashthi and concluding with Vijaya Dashami.
Q2: What is the significance of Durga Puja?
A2: Durga Puja celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. It is also a time to honor feminine power, creativity, and community spirit.
Q3: Where is Durga Puja celebrated on the largest scale?
A3: Kolkata, West Bengal hosts the largest and most iconic Durga Puja celebrations, featuring grand pandals, artistic idols, cultural performances, and massive community gatherings.
Q4: What are the main rituals of Durga Puja?
A4: The key rituals include Bodhon (invocation of the goddess), Pushpanjali (offering flowers), Sindoor Khela (vermilion play), and the immersion of the idol on Vijaya Dashami.
Q5: How can tourists experience Durga Puja 2025 in India?
A5: Tourists can visit cities like Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, or Guwahati to witness Durga Puja celebrations.
