Durga Puja and Navratri: Celebrating Feminine Power Across the Globe

As autumn transforms the world with its vibrant hues, people around the globe eagerly anticipate two of Hinduism’s most cherished festivals: Durga Puja and Navratri. These celebrations, rich in tradition and meaning, unite people across cultural and religious boundaries in honoring the strength and spirit of women.

Both festivals have ancient origins in India but gained prominence during the medieval period. Navratri, meaning “nine nights,” is celebrated across India, with each night dedicated to worshipping a different form of the goddess. The festival is particularly lively in Gujarat, located in the western part of India, where traditional dances like Garba and Dandiya Raas fill the nights with vibrant energy and communal joy. Durga Puja, on the other hand, is particularly significant in West Bengal, the eastern part of India. It focuses on the last five days of the festival and is centered around the story of Durga’s (a powerful Hindu Goddess) triumph over the demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. Both Navratri and Durga Puja is celebrated across the country.

The legend of Durga’s powerful weapons is a captivating tale. To defeat the formidable demon Mahishasura, who was wreaking havoc across the universe, Goddess Durga took form. Hindu iconography depicts her with ten arms, each holding a different weapon. Various gods bestowed These weapons upon her to equip her for the battle against the demon Mahishasura. Each weapon carries deep symbolic significance:

Bell Signifies alertness and the dispelling of evil. The bell is rung during worship to attract the goddess’s attention and ward off negative influences.

Trident: Symbolizing mastery over the three aspects of nature—goodness, passion, and wisdom.

Sword: Signifies intellect and wisdom. The sword is a tool for cutting through ignorance and illusions.

Bow: Represents the power of concentration and focus. The bow symbolizes discipline and the ability to channel one’s energy and effort towards achieving a goal.

Arrow: This signifies determination and the ability to pierce through obstacles.

Discus: Symbolizes the eternal cycle of time and the universe.

Mace: Represents strength and power. The mace is a symbol of authority and the ability to overcome adversity with force and determination.

Conch Shell: Signifies the sound of creation and the divine presence. Blowing the conch is believed to drive away negative energies.

Lotus Flower: Symbolizes purity and divine beauty. The lotus is a representation of spiritual awakening and the unfolding of higher consciousness.

Noose: Represents the power to control and capture. The noose symbolizes the ability to restrain and eliminate the forces of evil. Together, these symbols embody the principles of self-discipline, devotion, and righteousness.

The creation of Durga’s idol is a sacred and intricate process that begins months in advance. Artisans meticulously shape the goddess from clay with special attention to the facial features, considered the most expressive part of the statue. A profound tradition involves using punya mati, or sacred soil, collected from the doorsteps of brothels. This practice serves multiple significant purposes. It honors women who have been marginalized by society, making a powerful statement of equality and acceptance. Additionally, it welcomes those often considered outcasts into the festivities, embodying the spirit of unity that Durga Puja represents. This inclusion of soil reflects the belief that dignity and divinity are present in all people, regardless of their social standing.

One of the most significant rituals is Chokkhu Daan, the painting of Durga’s eyes, which takes place on Mahalaya, the auspicious day marking the goddess’s earthly descent and reunion with her devotees. The eyes considered the source of life and spirit for the idol, remain blank until this day. Only the most skilled artisans perform this final touch, symbolizing the goddess’s readiness to protect her devotees and combat evil.

Though originating in India, both Durga Puja and Navratri have become global phenomena, celebrated with enthusiasm by the Indian diaspora and embraced by diverse cultures worldwide. In Kolkata, a major city in the eastern part of India, Durga Puja is an unparalleled spectacle. The city transforms into a grand art gallery, with intricately designed pandals (temporary structures) housing magnificent Durga idols. Streets come alive with music, lights, and festive processions, drawing millions to honor the goddess and celebrate their cultural heritage.

In London, the Camden Durga Puja stands out as one of the largest celebrations outside India. Held at the Camden Centre, it draws thousands for rituals, cultural performances, and communal feasts, blending Indian and British cultures. In New York City, particularly in Queens, the Bengali community (people from West Bengal, India) organizes a spectacular Durga Puja featuring religious ceremonies, cultural shows, and authentic Bengali cuisine, attracting large crowds. Sydney’s Durga Puja showcases traditional performances, religious observances, and food stalls, connecting the community to its cultural roots. Similarly, Tokyo celebrates Durga Puja with enthusiasm, introducing Japanese locals to this vibrant festival and promoting cultural exchange.

Globally renowned Durga Puja events include the Ealing Durga Puja in London, Probashi in New Jersey, and Toronto Durga Bari in Canada. Each event adds a local flavor while honoring traditional roots. Garba and Dandiya Raas dances, integral to Navratri celebrations, are also enjoyed worldwide. In cities like Houston and London, these lively dances bring communities together, creating festive atmospheres filled with joy and cultural pride.

As the festival season draws to a close each year, its impact lingers long after the last prayer and drumbeat. Durga Puja and Navratri are more than just celebrations; they are powerful reminders of the strength, dignity, and divinity in every individual. Embracing the transformative power of these traditions, we are encouraged to foster a world that honors the inherent strength and equality within us all, inspired by the enduring spirit of Durga.

–Bidisha Ghosh, content writer, mother of twins, avid reader, and passionate baker.