Durga Puja Celebrations Amidst Theft

Devi Navratri celebrations are in full swing across Bangladesh, with the government announcing a four-day holiday for Durga Puja. The festival, marked by elaborate rituals and cultural events, showcases the rich heritage of the region. However, the joyous atmosphere has been overshadowed by the shocking theft at the Jeshoreshwari Kali temple.

The incident occurred on Thursday, October 10, between 2:47 PM and 2:50 PM, shortly after the temple priest, Dilip Kumar Banerjee, completed the daily puja. The responsibility of securing the temple locks was handed over to Rekha Sarkar, who, upon returning after a brief absence, discovered that the golden crown had vanished. She promptly reported the theft, triggering an immediate response from local authorities.

Prime Minister Modi’s Connection to the Crown

The golden crown, a significant artifact of the temple, holds a special connection to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During his visit to Bangladesh in March 2021, Prime Minister Modi participated in special prayers at the Jeshoreshwari temple and gifted the crown to the deity. This incident has heightened the sense of loss for devotees, as the crown was not just an object of adornment but also a symbol of the bond between the two nations.

Ongoing Investigation and Community Response

Local police have launched an investigation into the theft, with Officer Faqar Taijur Rehman confirming that efforts are underway to recover the stolen crown. Authorities are currently reviewing CCTV footage to identify the perpetrator, who was captured carrying the crown away.

The Jeshoreshwari temple, recognized as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, is revered for its spiritual significance. The temple’s name translates to “Goddess of Jeshore,” and the stolen crown, made of silver and adorned with gold, plays a vital role in the temple’s rituals and identity.

Conclusion

As the nation celebrates the joyous occasion of Durga Puja, the theft of the golden crown has cast a shadow over the festivities at Jeshoreshwari temple. Devotees are hopeful for the swift recovery of the crown, which not only represents their faith but also serves as a reminder of the cultural ties between India and Bangladesh.

The community remains vigilant and supportive of the ongoing investigation, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding their heritage and religious symbols during these significant celebrations.

The post Grand Durga Puja Celebrations Marred by Theft of Golden Crown at Jeshoreshwari Temple appeared first on Vizag One.

During Sharadiya Navratri, each day is dedicated to a unique form of Goddess Durga. On the fifth day, devotees worship Skandamata, named for being the mother of Skanda, also known as Kartikeya. Ancient scriptures such as Kashi Khandam and Devi Puranam describe her as the divine mother who rides a lion, bringing strength and blessings to her followers. Skandamata is depicted with four arms, holding a lotus flower in two hands, while one hand cradles her son Kartikeya, and the other holds an arrow.

Auspicious Time for Skandamata Puja:

According to the Vedic Panchangam, the best time to perform Skandamata Puja is between 11:40 AM and 12:30 PM.

Skandamata Puja Rituals:

Begin by taking a bath and wearing clean, preferably white, clothes, as this is the color favored by Skandamata. Set up her image or idol in your home’s pooja room or designated worship area. Purify the space with Ganga water and place an urn with water and coins beside the idol. Proceed with the rituals by applying turmeric and saffron to the goddess and offering a banana as Naivedyam (sacred food). Perform aarti with incense and a lamp, and chant the sacred mantra of Skandamata. It is believed that worshiping in white attire and offering bananas can bring blessings of good health and prosperity.

Skandamata Puja Mantras:

Chanting these mantras with devotion is said to invoke the divine blessings of Skandamata:

1. Simhasangata Nityam Padmashri Thakardwaya. Shubhamastu Devi Skandamata Yashwini
2. Om Skanda Matayai Namah
3. Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Maa Skandamata Rupena Sanstita. Namastesyai Namastesyai Namastesyai Namo Namah

Significance of Skandamata Worship:

Worshiping Skandamata on the fifth day of Navratri is believed to fulfill the desires of those facing obstacles in starting a family. It is also said to bring wisdom, family peace, and overall well-being. For couples hoping to have children, Skandamata Puja holds special importance, as she is believed to bless her devotees with fertility and joy in parenthood.

May Skandamata shower her blessings on all and bring joy and prosperity during this auspicious Navratri season.

The post Navratri Day 5: Celebrating Skandamata Puja and the Blessings of Goddess Durga appeared first on Vizag One.

The dedicated team behind this impressive creation worked tirelessly for five months, utilizing approximately 8,000 plants to bring their vision to life. This effort not only showcases artistic talent but also emphasizes the critical need for environmental stewardship and sustainability.

A Green Initiative

The organizers have thoughtfully crafted this mandapa to highlight the importance of preserving nature and promoting greenery in urban spaces. By using natural materials, they aim to inspire visitors and the local community to consider the impact of their actions on the environment. This eco-conscious design is not only visually appealing but also serves as a powerful message about the need for sustainable practices in celebration and daily life.

Attracting Attention

The unique and artistic presentation of the idol has attracted numerous visitors, sparking conversations about environmental priorities and encouraging community engagement. As people flock to the mandapam, they are reminded of the beauty and significance of nature, particularly during the festive Durga Puja season.

Conclusion

This initiative reflects a growing trend towards eco-friendly celebrations, showcasing how traditional festivities can harmonize with the environment. By integrating nature into the design of the Durga Mata idol, the organizers hope to leave a lasting impact on the community, fostering a greater appreciation for the natural world.

The post Eco-Friendly Durga Puja: Innovative Mandap Design Promotes Environmental Awareness in Kolkata appeared first on Vizag One.

In the year 2024, Shukla Paksha Dashami Tithi will begin on October 12 at 10.58 am and conclude on October 13 at 9.08 am, marking the celebration of Vijayadashami (Dussehra) on the 12th of October.

Dussehra is celebrated to honor Rama’s victory over Ravana and also signifies the slaying of the demon Mahishasura by Goddess Durga on Vijaya Dashami after a nine-day battle. This is why Dussehra is also referred to as Sharannavaratri and Devi Navratri. During these nine days, various forms of Goddess Durga are adorned, and special pujas are conducted.

In West Bengal, Vijayadasami is observed with grand festivities. On Dussehra day, Shami Puja is performed, where the leaves of the Shami tree are exchanged for gold as a symbol of good luck and prosperity. Bengalis celebrate Bijoy Dashami on the tenth day of Durga Puja, culminating in the immersion of Goddess Durga idols in the river.

Additionally, Shami Puja, Aparajita Puja, and witnessing Palapitta are considered auspicious traditions on Dussehra day.

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