Hello Kolkata,
As the twilight sky melts into deep hues of crimson, Bengal prepares for the most awaited time of the year. The sacred verses of Mahalaya echo through homes, “Ya Devi Sarva Bhuteshu Shakti Rupena Samsthita,” invoking the divine presence of Maa Durga. Her arrival signals the triumph of good over evil, lighting up the hearts of millions with hope and reverence. The air is filled with the promise of celebration as the city readies itself to welcome the warrior goddess once again. In Kolkata’s Kumartuli, the artists give form to this divine energy, shaping idols that carry the essence of Maa Durga’s power and grace.
The Sacred Descent:
Mahalaya marks the beginning of Devi Paksha, the sacred fortnight that announces Maa Durga’s descent from her celestial abode. The resonant verses of Chandi Path fill the air, setting the stage for the divine battle where good conquers evil. “Ya Devi Sarva Bhuteshu, Matri Rupena Samsthita,” highlights her role as the universal mother, the protector who destroys darkness. This isn’t just a ritual; it’s a call for justice, a reminder that light will always defeat the shadows.
The Daughter’s Homecoming:
For Bengalis, Maa Durga is more than just a goddess—she is Uma, the beloved daughter returning to her earthly home for a few precious days. This homecoming brings an outpouring of love and nostalgia, as families prepare to welcome her with open hearts and homes. With her, she brings an abundance of blessings, prayers, and positive possibilities, showering her devotees with protection and peace. Her arrival stirs a deep emotional connection, a feeling of reunion, as if a cherished daughter is coming home after a long absence.
Kumartuli: The Heartbeat of Creation
In Kolkata’s Kumartuli, this sentiment is given form. Here, generations of artisans shape the very image of the goddess, molding clay into the divine form of Maa Durga. The narrow lanes of this ancient locality are filled with the smell of wet clay and the sight of half-formed idols, their intricate faces taking shape under the skilled hands of these master craftsmen. This process is deeply nostalgic, as every year, these creations transform the city’s landscape, breathing life into the goddess herself. Kumartuli is more than just a place—it is where devotion meets art, where faith is molded into physical form.
The streets here hold a special kind of magic, as the final touches are put on the idols—painting her eyes, her trishul, her lion, and her calm, powerful demeanor. With every stroke of the brush, anticipation builds. These idols, soon to be placed in grand pandals, will become the center of worship for millions, carrying the spiritual energy of the goddess herself. For many, a visit to Kumartuli before Durga Puja is an emotional journey, a way to witness the creation of the very embodiment of hope, power, and love.
Twilight's Symbolism:
The days leading up to Durga Puja are steeped in twilight’s symbolism. As dusk falls, it carries with it the promise of a new beginning, much like the festival itself. The hymn, “Ya Devi Sarva Bhuteshu Buddhi Rupena Samsthita,” reminds us of the wisdom and light Maa Durga brings with her. Her arrival represents a moment of transformation, where ignorance gives way to understanding, and darkness is overcome by the light of truth. The twilight of pre-puja days holds the promise of her blessings, a prelude to the festival of good conquering evil.
The Elegance of Tradition:
Bengal’s preparations are not limited to devotion—they also embrace elegance and tradition. As the days approach, markets bustle with people buying laal paar shada sarees (white sarees with red borders), symbolizing purity and victory, mirroring the goddess’s attire. Kumartuli’s bustling energy is matched by the preparation of traditional clothing, gold jewelry, and the adornments that reflect the spirit of devotion. Each element reflects the timeless bond between the people and their goddess, as families ready themselves to honor her in both heart and home.
Unity in Celebration:
Durga Puja is not just a festival—it is an expression of unity, culture, and faith. From Kumartuli to every corner of Bengal, preparations are underway to welcome the goddess with grandeur. Pandals, filled with intricate designs, stand ready to host her divine form, while the streets buzz with excitement. The air is filled with the sounds of dhaak, the traditional drums, signaling that the goddess is near. Across generations, the festival binds communities together in a shared celebration of joy, devotion, and the eternal power of good over evil.
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As the anticipation builds and the city of Kolkata transforms into a vibrant tapestry of lights and sounds, the arrival of Maa Durga becomes a moment of profound spiritual significance. Though she comes as a daughter, bringing with her peace and blessings, there is an inevitable sadness that lingers, knowing she will soon return to her celestial abode. But even in this departure, there is joy. The powerful chant “Asche Bochor Abar Hobe” (She will return next year) echoes through the hearts of every devotee. Like the twilight before dawn, her return is both a farewell and a promise—she will come again, bringing with her the hope, love, and light that dispels even the darkest shadows.
