Durga puja is the time for festivities, peace and prosperity

Spring is the best of all seasons, but it’s the autumn that invites Goddess Durga. Durga Puja is one of the biggest festivals for the Hindus. White cotton-ball-like

Spring is the best of all seasons, but it’s the autumn that invites Goddess Durga. Durga Puja is one of the biggest festivals for the Hindus. White cotton-ball-like clouds floating in the clear blue sky is a natural phenomenon in autumn which indicates the arrival of Goddess Durga.

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In most parts of India, buildings and streets are decorated with lights, huge puja pandals imitate famous religious and historic shrines and the roads are filled with people of all ages. Everyone who celebrates intensely feels the spirit and the ambiance of the festival.

Cultural programmes are organised, along with events like the ‘dhunuchi naach’ (dancing with fire), accompanied with the ‘dhakdhol’ (a large drum) and ‘ghonta’ (bell). Long ‘adda’ sessions are also organised during this time. All these events encompass the spirit of the Durga Puja season and bring joy to our hearts.

Shakti is the invincible power of the lord, or the celestial energy. Goddess Durga is a form of Shakti worshipped for her gracious part. The mother of creation, she stands for the inestimable power of the existence and is an icon of a female vitality. The expression of Goddess Durga is said to appear from her unformed spirit and the two cannot be divided.

Her grace is endless and her clemency is infinite. Goddess Durga is the deity of knowledge. Her glory goes beyond words and her splendour is inexpressible. She brings peace, prosperity, happiness and spiritual freedom for all.

(Inner Voice comprises contributions from our readers. The views expressed are personal.)