বাংলায় পড়ুন
Durga Puja, the grandest festival in the Bengali calendar, is a celebration that goes beyond just pandal hopping, feasting, and love for the Devi Durga. It's a time when devotion and traditions take centre stage, and one of the most revered rituals during these festivities is 'Anjali' on Ashtami, the eighth day.
For Bengalis, Durga Puja 2023 is more than just a religious event; it's an emotional homecoming. People return from far-off places, and the excitement is palpable as everyone buys new clothes and visits pandals to witness the goddess's idol. Amid all this, one element stands out: Ashtami's Anjali.
The significance of Ashtami during Durga Puja is deeply rooted in tradition and religious texts. It is believed that on this day, the Devi is especially benevolent, and devotees' wishes may come true if she bestows her blessings upon them.
Durga Puja spans five days in accordance with Bengali customs. The Devi's arrival is celebrated on Shashthi, followed by the primary puja ceremonies on Saptami, Ashtami, and Navami. The festival culminates with Dashami, the day of immersion. Each day has its own unique rituals, such as bathing the Navapatrika on Saptami, worshipping young girls (Kumari Puja) on Ashtami, and performing a homa on Navami.
However, Ashtami's Anjali holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. In 2023, Ashtami falls on October 22nd. According to the panchang, Ashtami technically begins on the evening of October 21st. The most auspicious time for Ashtami Anjali is within the window of 9:27 AM to 9:45 AM. Devotees gather at the pandals and offer their prayers to the goddess during this time.
Anjali is not limited to Ashtami; Sandhipuja is another crucial aspect of Durga Puja. Many observe fasting in the morning, and the Sandhipuja begins at 5:16 PM, concluding at 5:40 PM. During this time, devotees offer prayers, light lamps, and follow various rituals to seek the blessings of Devi.
The entire Durga Puja festival is a mesmerising experience, but Ashtami and Sandhipuja stand out as moments of profound devotion and spirituality. As devotees immerse themselves in these rituals, they believe that they are not only celebrating the goddess but also inviting prosperity into their lives.
To enhance the auspiciousness of Ashtami, devotees dress in new clothes, recite the "Durga Chalisa" in the morning, and offer 108 red lotus flowers at the goddess's feet. These practices are believed to bring abundance and good fortune.
However, it's not just Ashtami or Sandhipuja; every moment of Durga Puja is a time to cherish. Decorating the house with Dhunuchi dance, establishing the shankh (conch shell) as a symbol of well-being, and following the customs meticulously can bring happiness and blessings into one's life.
So, as the Bengali community worldwide prepares for Durga Puja 2023, they know that it's not just a festival; it's a spiritual journey filled with devotion, traditions, and the hope for a brighter future. Anjali and Sandhipuja are not mere rituals; they are moments of deep connection with the divine, making Durga Puja an unparalleled celebration of faith and culture.
