The Glorious History of Durga Puja: From Mythology to Modern Celebration

 

Durga Puja, one of the grandest festivals in India, is a vibrant celebration of the Goddess Durga’s victory over evil. But before the lights, colors, and festivities, there lies a deep historical and spiritual story — the background of Durga Ma and the origin of Durga Puja that shaped this iconic tradition.

• The Background of Durga Ma: The Divine Power of Shakti

The background of Durga Ma is rooted in ancient Hindu mythology. According to the Devi Mahatmya in the Markandeya Purana, Durga was born from the combined energies of the supreme trinity — Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva — to defeat the demon Mahishasura.

 

This divine battle symbolizes the victory of righteousness (dharma) over evil (adharma), and Durga Ma stands as the embodiment of Shakti — the ultimate feminine power. Her ten arms carrying weapons, her lion mount, and her serene yet powerful expression represent courage, justice, and protection for all creation.

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• The origin of durga puja : from ancient rituals to royal ceremonies

of Durga Puja as a festival dates back several centuries. While worship of the goddess existed since the Vedic period, organized celebrations began in Bengal around the 15th–16th century.

 

It is believed that the first grand Durga Puja was organized by the Sabarna Roy Chowdhury family of Barisha, Kolkata, in 1610. These were royal household rituals performed with great devotion, music, and offerings.

 

During the 18th century, the festival took a new turn with the introduction of Baroari Puja (from baro-yari, meaning “twelve friends”) in Guptipara, Hooghly. This marked a shift from private household worship to community-based celebrations, making Durga Puja accessible to the common people.

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•  Evolution of Durga Puja: The Cultural and Social Transformation

 The evolution of Durga Puja mirrors the cultural transformation of Bengal. During the Bengal Renaissance (19th–20th centuries), the festival became more than a religious event — it became a reflection of Bengali art, intellect, and identity.

 Social reformers and poets such as Raja Rammohan Roy and Rabindranath Tagore saw Durga Puja as a time for cultural awakening. The festival also became a meeting ground for freedom fighters and intellectuals, spreading messages of unity during British rule.

 The sound of the dhaak, the fragrance of shiuli flowers, and the rhythm of dhunuchi naach turned Durga Puja into a celebration of both spirituality and community spirit.

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•  Modern-Day Durga Puja: Art, Creativity, and Global Presence

 

In the modern era, Durga Puja has evolved into a grand artistic spectacle. Each year, thousands of theme-based pandals emerge across Kolkata and other parts of India, blending mythology with modern creativity.

 

Artisans spend months designing intricate idols of Durga Ma, often inspired by social themes like women’s empowerment, environmental protection, and cultural heritage.

 

The celebration has now crossed borders — with Durga Puja being observed across London, New York, Toronto, and Singapore, reflecting the festival’s global reach and emotional connection among the diaspora.

• Significance of Durga Puja: Beyond Religion and Rituals

Durga Puja is more than worship — it’s a symbol of harmony, creativity, and togetherness. It brings people from different backgrounds under one umbrella of joy and devotion.

 

The origin of Durga Puja may lie in mythology, but its modern essence is rooted in community, equality, and cultural pride. The beating of drums, the glow of lamps, and the chants of “Jai Maa Durga” remind us that the goddess resides not only in temples but in the hearts of her devotees.

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•  Conclusion: A Timeless Journey of Faith and Festivity

 

From the background of Durga Ma in ancient scriptures to the evolution of Durga Puja into a global phenomenon, the festival tells a timeless story of strength, hope, and unity.

 

As each year passes, Durga Puja continues to redefine itself — blending tradition with modernity, faith with festivity, and history with heart.