Samastipur: In the courtyard of Durgabari in Samastipur, women from the Bengali community organized Sindoor Khela to mark the conclusion of Dussehra. Dressed in traditional attire, they applied sindoor to each other and bid farewell to Maa Durga with prayers, dances, and songs, wishing for her return next year and for her blessings on all.
Mandira Palid, President of the local Durgabari Kali Puja Committee, highlighted the significance of this event, explaining that the departure of Maa Durga is akin to sending off a daughter. While there is sadness in her leaving, there is also joy in the hope of her return next year. Palid also expressed the community’s prayer for global peace, emphasizing the need for an end to the ongoing conflicts and fears across the world.
Durgabari has been a center for the Bengali community’s celebrations in Samastipur for 91 years. Each year, the community comes together to observe Durga Puja with full Bengali customs. Educational and cultural programs, such as painting and Rangoli competitions, are also organized for children during the festivities. This year, the Puja Committee awarded children who excelled in these activities during the Saptami, Ashtami, and Navami celebrations.
