Durga Puja, one of the grandest and most awaited festivals in India, is not just a religious observance but a celebration of art, culture, and heritage.
Rooted deeply in devotion and tradition, this festival is primarily celebrated in West Bengal, Assam, Odisha, and other eastern states. In 2025, Durga Puja promises to be an equally enchanting occasion.
This blog provides a detailed overview of the 2025 Durga Puja Calendar, its significance, and associated rituals.
What is Durga Puja?
Durga Puja, also known as Durgotsav, honors Goddess Durga’s victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
The festival is celebrated during the Shardiya Navratri period, aligning with the Hindu lunar calendar, typically in September or October.
Durga Puja 2025 Calendar
The Durga Puja festivities span ten days, beginning with Mahalaya and culminating in Vijayadashami. Here's the 2025 schedule:
| Puja Day | Puja Date | Puja Week Day | Tithi | Date in Bengali Calendar | Festival Name |
| Durga Puja Day 1 | 27th September 2025 | Saturday / শনিবার | Panchami | Ashshin 10, 1432 | Bilva Nimantran |
| Durga Puja Day 2 | 28th September 2025 | Sunday / রবিবার | Shashthi | Ashshin 11, 1432 | Kalparambha, Akal Bodhon, Amantran and Adhivas |
| Durga Puja Day 3 | 29th September 2025 | Monday / সোমবার | Saptami | Ashshin 12, 1432 | Durga Saptami, Kolabou Puja |
| Durga Puja Day 4 | 30th September 2025 | Tuesday / মঙ্গলবার | Ashtami | Ashshin 13, 1432 | Durga Ashtami, Kumari Puja, Sandhi Puja |
| Durga Puja Day 5 | 1st October 2025 | Wednesday / বুধবার | Nabami | Ashshin 14, 1432 | Maha Navami, Durga Balidan, Navami Homa |
| Durga Puja Day 6 | 2nd October 2025 | Thursday / বৃহস্পতিবার | Dashami | Ashshin 15, 1432 | Durga Visarjan, Vijayadashami, Sindoor Utsav |
Significance of Each Day
Each day of Durga Puja carries immense spiritual and cultural importance:
Mahalaya:
This day signifies the beginning of Devi Paksha, the fortnight dedicated to the Goddess. Devotees chant the sacred verses of Chandi Path to awaken the Goddess. It is also the time to perform Tarpan, an offering to ancestors.
Shasthi:
Shasthi is the day of Kalparambha (beginning of rituals), marking the formal arrival of Durga on earth. Devotees celebrate her Bodhan (welcoming) with grandeur.
Saptami:
On this day, the Nabapatrika Puja takes place, where nine different plants are tied together and worshipped, symbolizing nine forms of Durga.
Ashtami:
Sandhi Puja is performed during the transition of Ashtami and Navami, believed to be the moment when Goddess Durga killed Mahishasura. This day is also marked by traditional prayers and offerings.
Navami:
Maha Arati symbolizes the end of the battle between good and evil. Devotees seek blessings for prosperity and happiness.
Vijayadashami:
The culmination of the festival is marked by idol immersion and the emotional farewell to the Goddess, symbolizing her return to Mount Kailash.
Rituals and Traditions
Durga Puja is a spectacle of rituals, each infused with spiritual and cultural meaning. Here’s a glimpse:
Durga Idol Making:
The artistry begins months before the festival, with skilled artisans crafting exquisite idols of Goddess Durga, her children, and the demon Mahishasura.
Decorations and Pandals:
Elaborate pandals (temporary structures) are erected to house the idols. Themes range from traditional temples to modern art interpretations.
Chanting and Songs:
Devotional songs like Agomoni are sung to welcome the Goddess. Chandi Path and Aarti are performed daily.
Cultural Programs:
Dance, drama, and music performances highlight the rich cultural heritage associated with the festival.
Bhog and Prasad:
Special food offerings, including khichuri (rice and lentils), labra (mixed vegetable curry), and sweets, are distributed as prasad.
Sindoor Khela:
Married women smear each other with vermillion on Vijayadashami, symbolizing the power of womanhood and wishing prosperity.
Tips for Observing Durga Puja in 2025
Plan Visits:
If you wish to visit famous pandals in Kolkata or other cities, plan your itinerary early to avoid the rush.
Participate in Rituals:
Join the daily aarti and Sandhi Puja to experience the spiritual essence of the festival.
Try Traditional Cuisine:
Explore authentic Bengali dishes served as bhog during the festival.
Immerse in Culture:
Attend cultural programs, including traditional dances, dramas, and music concerts.
Conclusion
The 2025 Durga Puja Calendar promises a harmonious blend of spirituality, culture, and festivity. With its rich traditions and captivating celebrations, the festival continues to be a beacon of hope, unity, and joy. Whether you're a devout follower or a cultural enthusiast, Durga Puja offers an experience like no other.
Make sure to mark your calendar and immerse yourself in the divinity and grandeur of Durga Puja 2025!