Chirag Gupta
Patna: Preparations for Durga Puja are underway at the Bengali Akhara in Patna, where this year the idol of Maa Durga will stand 12 feet tall. The pandal will be artistically decorated around the theme of Bengali litterateurs, featuring a display box of their photographs and special lighting. This year marks the 132nd celebration of Durga Puja at this venue.
The ritual of Kalash Sthapana, also known as Bodhan, will take place on Panchami day. Unlike many other regions, Bengali Akhara emphasizes Murti Puja over Kalash Puja, focusing on the Pran Pratishtha of the idol. Darshan of the goddess will begin on Shashthi, with Dhunuchi dance following the evening aarti on Saptami, Ashtami, and Navami.
On the day of Pushpanjali, devotees will fast and offer flowers to Maa Durga, accompanied by chanting of mantras. Sandhi Puja will be performed, which signifies the union of Ashtami and Navami. Married women will light 108 lamps, performing the aarti, and then offer 108 lotus flowers, Belpatra garlands, and Udalhul flower garlands to the goddess. This culminates in a night of jagran for Maa Durga.
This year, Maa Durga will be adorned with a traditional Banarasi saree, while dhotis for Ganesh and Kartik are being sourced from Kolkata. The puja will require a total of 15 sarees, 24 towels, 10 dhotis, and various bangles, all of which will be changed daily with specific mantras during the five-day celebration.
Special bhogs will be prepared for Saptami, Ashtami, and Navami. On these days, khichdi will be made with Dehradun rice, while pulao and Matar Paneer will be served on Navami, using Bhagalpuri Katarni rice. A total of 11 dishes, including kheer, puri, sabzi, halwa, danori, papad, and chutney, will be offered. The bhog will be distributed through a coupon system, with meals served in earthen pots. On Saptami and Ashtami, the coupon price will be Rs 350, while on Navami it will be Rs 450, featuring a variety of dishes including Aloo Gobi, Aloo Parwal, and Paneer with Aloo Kashmiri.
