Mahasasthi, the sixth day from the new moon. Durga Puja has finally begun, putting an end to all the long wait of Kolkatans. Mesmerising beats of Dhaak have begun wafting through the atmosphere, and the city is all decked up to welcome the Goddess and her children. The pandals are ready, the streets are illuminated and the idols have been brought to the pandals. All in all, the whole ambiance of the city is manifesting the true spirit of Durga Puja.
Sasthi marks the beginning of the Durga Puja celebrations. The five-day extravaganza of Durga Puja begins on this day. Sasthi is considered to be the day when Goddess Durga, along with her children, arrives to the earth from her heavenly abode. Maa Durga is welcomed to her parents' house with much fanfare, amidst beats of Dhaak, sounds of conch shells, illuminated streets and aroma of delicious food wafting through the air.
The main ritual on Sasthi begins around the evening, and involves unveiling the covered face of the idol of Maa Durga. This ritual is called Bodhon and is performed by a number of people assembled together to welcome the Goddess to earth. Sasthi also typically marks the beginning of pandal-hopping for the citizens of Kolkata, who begin spilling out on the streets to visit the pandals, pray to Maa Durga for their well-being, and also enjoy the beginning of five days of celebrations!
Here's wishing a Subho Sasthi to all from Headlines India!
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