Durga Puja, Why is it celebrated?
The prestigious festival of Durga Puja is a five day festival, that originated in the Indian subcontinent and pays homage to the goddess Maa Durga. It celebrates the victory of good over evil as the goddess Durga killed the demon king Mahishasur. According to Hindu mythology, t the goddess visits her home during this time to bless her devotees and followers. This festival is considered sacred for the Bengalis. However, it is celebrated in other states like Odisha, Bihar and  Tripura. The Puja starts with the day of Mahalaya.
This year, Durgotsav begins from October 20th to October 24th. The Puja starts with the prestigious day of Mahalaya. It is followed by Panchami[5], Shashti[6], Saptami[7], Ashtami[8],Navami[9],Dashmi[10].In the Hindu legend, Lord Brahma had granted the demon Mahishasura a blessing of immortality, protecting him from the attacks of both men and gods.  Mahishasura misused this power and attacked the gods. The Gods then created the goddess Durga to fight the demon. This puja marks the significance of good over evil. Every year, months before the puja, the city of joy begins its preparation in full swing. The splendid idols are prepared magnificently by the sculptors in Kumartoli. The artists and individual centres start making the pandals. The pandals follow innovative and creative themes. There is lip-smacking street food in stalls. All the restaurants are fully packed.
Preparation 50 days before the Puja
In 2024, Traditional shopping areas in Kolkata are bustling with shoppers as 50 days left for Durga Puja. Markets in Gariahat, New Market and Hatibagan are overcrowded. The other malls and markets throughout the city are busy purchasing. The zest and the sankh of Puja are playing already. Since the previous weekend, malls, markets, and wholesale hubs have experienced a steady rise in sales. It has led to immense and uncontrollable traffic in these areas.
Retailers and wholesalers claim that even though the festival is in the third week of October, shopping has already started. In the second week of September, Ganesh Pujas,  which have become increasingly popular throughout the city and its neighbouring areas, are also planned. The head of the Central Kolkata Textiles Association said they have received many orders from people across the towns and city. The demand for clothes, cosmetics and gift items has increased.Several market committees claim that there is an increase in the business of stores in Kolkata and its outskirts stocking up on goods to prepare for the festive season. To avoid higher rates during the peak season, tend to purchase early.
The business community is relieved by the increase in customer traffic. Many retailers said that their sales had already risen to 35%.
Theme for the pandals this year 2024
The theme for the pandals of Sreebhumi Sporting Club is Disneyland. The Suruchi Sangha has a very different concept, which they will reveal on the day of Mahalaya. Paturighata Pancher Pali has the theme of Ritumati [menstrual hygiene], and Chetla Agrani has the theme of Fate and Destiny. Santoshpur Lake Pally Puja Has the theme of Swatantra.
