Durga Puja and Maha Navami 2025

Maha Navami Durga Puja is one of the most significant and vibrant festivals of Sanatan Dharma, dedicated to Goddess Durga. The goddess is considered a divine embodiment of power, protection, and courage. Durga Puja is celebrated during the Shukla Paksha of the Ashwin month, which typically falls between September and October as per the Hindu calendar. This festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil and is celebrated every year with great enthusiasm in honour of Goddess Durga. Maha Navami or the Durga Puja celebration is especially known for its grandeur in the eastern Indian states such as West Bengal, Odisha, Assam, and Tripura. However, it is also observed with equal devotion and fervour across India and among Indian communities around the world. Durga Puja is not limited to a religious ritual alone; it is also a deeply cultural and social celebration. It brings communities together, strengthens the spirit of unity among people, and showcases the rich cultural heritage of India.

What is Durga Puja?

Durga Puja is one of the major festivals in Sanatan Dharma, dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga. This festival celebrates the triumph of good over evil through the victory of Maa Durga. According to mythology, Goddess Durga was created by the combined powers of the gods to defeat the demon Mahishasura. Her victory over Mahishasura is considered a symbol of the victory of righteousness over evil and the rise of feminine strength. Durga Puja is celebrated with great enthusiasm, especially in the states of West Bengal, Assam, Bihar, Jharkhand, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, and Odisha. On the days of Durga Puja, devotees wear new clothes and visit beautifully decorated pandals where they offer flowers, fruits, and prasad in front of the deity’s idol. Special community feasts are organized during this period, and people gather with family and friends to exchange festive greetings. Kolkata’s Durga Puja has been declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, reflecting the deep social and cultural significance of this festival.

Durga Puja 2025 Dates

Ashtami: Will be celebrated on 30th September 2025

Ashtami Tithi Begins: 29th September 2025 at 4:34 P.M
Ashtami Tithi Ends: 30th September 2025 at 6:07 P.M

Maha Navami: Will be celebrated on 1st October 2025

Navami Tithi Begins: 30th September 2025 at 6:08 P.M
Navami Tithi Ends: 1st October 2025 at 7:02 P.M

The Mythological Story of Durga Puja

The story of Durga Puja or Maha Navami narrates the timeless battle between Goddess Durga and the fierce demon Mahishasura — a symbol of the triumph of good over evil. This tale is not merely a mythological legend; it serves as a symbol of strength, determination, and divine intervention needed to conquer both internal and external evils in human existence. It offers devotees inspiration and courage to face their own struggles and overcome the obstacles in life.

Main Rituals and Traditions of Durga Puja

Durga Puja is marked by several significant rituals and traditions spread across the days of the festival, each carrying deep symbolic and spiritual meaning.

1. Kalash Sthapana and Ghata Sthapana

This marks the beginning of Navratri worship and is considered one of the most important initial rituals of the celebration. It involves the installation of a sacred pot (Kalash) symbolizing the presence of Goddess Durga. The Kalash is filled with holy water, mango leaves, and coconut, and placed on a clay pot containing barley seeds, symbolizing fertility and growth. This ritual is performed to create a sanctified space and to invite the divine energy of the Goddess.

2. Bodhan, Amantran, and Adhivas

Bodhan is the ritual of ceremonially awakening the idol of Goddess Durga, preparing her to dwell on Earth. Amantran and Adhivas are the rituals through which the goddess is formally invited to reside on Earth. In West Bengal, this day marks the unveiling of the idol, symbolizing the beginning of public darshan and celebrations. These rituals help purify the environment for the presence and worship of the deity.

3. Navapatrika Puja

Celebrated on Maha Saptami, Navapatrika Puja — also known as Kola Bou — is a unique and important ritual. It involves a bundle of nine different plants, dressed in a saree, and worshipped as embodiments of the nine forms of Goddess Durga. Some consider it to represent the consort of Lord Ganesha, while others view it as the Goddess herself, highlighting the deep connection between nature and spirituality. This ritual reflects reverence toward nature and the recognition of the goddess’s various manifestations.

4. Maha Snan and Pran-Pratishtha

a) Maha Snan

Maha Snan is the ceremonial bathing of the idol of Goddess Durga, performed using a mirror representing the deity herself. This ritual is conducted to purify the idol and prepare it for divine energy.

b) Pran-Pratishtha

In Pran-Pratishtha, divine energy is invoked into the idol of the goddess, making it spiritually alive. It is believed that only after this ritual does the deity truly reside in the idol, making it fit for worship.

c) Kumari Puja

Kumari Puja is a beautiful and symbolic ritual where young, unmarried girls (typically between the ages of 1 and 10) are worshipped as living embodiments of Goddess Durga. Their feet are washed, and they are offered traditional food (such as halwa, puri, and chana), gifts, and new clothes. This ritual symbolizes reverence for feminine divine power (Shakti) and emphasizes the importance of women in society.

d) Sindoor Khela

Sindoor Khela is a vibrant and colourful Bengali Sanatan tradition celebrated on Vijayadashami. In this ritual, married women apply vermillion (sindoor) to the idol of the goddess and then to each other. It symbolizes marital bliss, longevity, and communal harmony. Traditionally, only married women participated in this ritual, but it has faced criticism for overemphasizing marital status. In recent years, there has been a movement towards inclusivity, encouraging unmarried women, widows, and transgender individuals to participate in Sindoor Khela. This reflects a progressive shift in the social aspects of the festival, showing how traditions evolve in dialogue with contemporary social consciousness — transforming the ritual into a universal bond for all women.

e) Immersion

On Vijayadashami, Durga Puja concludes with the immersion (Visarjan) of the idols of Goddess Durga and other deities into rivers or water bodies. This ritual symbolizes the goddess’s return to her heavenly abode, Mount Kailash. It is an emotional moment for devotees, who bid farewell to the goddess with the hope of her return the following year. After the immersion, people greet one another and exchange good wishes on Bijoya Dashami, marking a new beginning and the spirit of harmony.

Powerful Mantras of Durga Puja

Chanting Durga mantras with devotion brings peace, strength, and clarity to the mind and soul, offering a sense of spiritual elevation and empowerment.

i. Durga Dhyana Mantra

Mantra: “Om Jata Juta Samayuktamardhendu Krita Lakshanam, Lochanatraya Samyuktam Padmendu Sadya Shanam.”
Meaning: I bow to the Goddess adorned with matted hair, bearing the crescent moon on her forehead, having three eyes, and whose face is as serene and beautiful as the lotus and the moon.
Benefit: This mantra should be chanted before starting any other mantra or ritual. It opens the soul, awakens the consciousness, and helps maintain focus.

ii. Durga Mantra (Sarva Mangala Mangalye)

Mantra: “Sarvamangala Mangalye Shive Sarvartha Sadhike, Sharanye Tryambake Gauri Narayani Namostute.”
Meaning: O Mother! You are the source of all auspiciousness, the embodiment of benevolence, fulfiller of all desires. You are the protector of those who seek refuge, the three-eyed one, the radiant Gauri, and the power of Narayana – I bow to you repeatedly.
Benefit: Considered one of the most powerful mantras, it grants the strength to overcome obstacles. It brings wisdom and opens the mind to new ideas, making it especially helpful for new ventures or experiences.

iii. Devi Stuti Mantra

Mantra: “Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Shakti Rupena Samsthita, Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namah.”
Meaning: I bow again and again to the Goddess who resides in all living beings as strength.
Benefit: It brings fortune and prosperity, removes negativity, and with regular chanting, it generates positive vibrations and improves financial conditions.

iv. Shakti Mantra

Mantra: “Sharanyagat Dinarta Paritran Parayane, Sarvasyaarti Hare Devi Narayani Namostute.”
Meaning: I bow to the Goddess Narayani who is ever ready to protect the sorrowful and distressed who seek refuge in her, and who destroys all forms of suffering.
Benefit: This is one of the most powerful mantras. Regular chanting gives courage and strength to fight problems and obstacles, making the devotee stronger and wiser. It grants divine power to the worshipper.

v. Durga Gayatri Mantra

Mantra: “Om Girijayai Vidmahe, Shiva Priyayai Dhimahi, Tanno Durga Prachodayat.”
Meaning: Let us know Goddess Girija (Durga), beloved of Lord Shiva. We meditate upon her, and may she inspire our inner self and intellect towards truth, knowledge, and righteousness.
Benefit: This mantra is often chanted for strength, protection, and the removal of obstacles. It connects the chanter with feminine divine energy and promotes courage and resilience.

vi. Other Important Mantras

Bad Dream Relief Mantra "Shantikarmani sarvatra tatha duhsvapnadarsane। Grahapidasu chograsu mahatmyam srnuyan mama॥" - This mantra offers relief from disturbing dreams and negative thoughts. It helps bring peace, calmness, and emotional balance during spiritual practices or troubled times.
Enemy Pacification Mantra "Ripavah samksayam yanti kalyanam chopapadyatel Nandate cha kulam pumsam mahatmya mama srnuyan mama॥"- This mantra removes enemies and negative influences from life, leads to peace and success, and protects the devotee from evil intentions. It ensures well-being for the individual and their family.

Obstacle Removal Mantra "Sarvabadha vinirmukto dhana dhanya sutanvitah। Manusyo matprasadena bhavisyati na samayah।।"- Highly beneficial for removing obstacles and achieving goals. It wards off misfortunes and brings prosperity. Especially helpful for couples trying to conceive, as it brings divine grace and blessings into the family.

Benefits of Durga Puja

Durga Puja is a powerful Sanatan ritual that honours Goddess Durga, the divine embodiment of Shakti (power). The festival brings numerous personal and collective benefits, making it an integral part of devotees' lives:

Protection from Negative Energies: Worship during Durga Puja invokes the divine protection of Goddess Durga, shielding devotees from evil forces, negative energies, and various obstacles.
Attainment of Strength and Courage: Worshipping Durga enhances both mental and physical strength, empowering devotees with the courage to face and overcome life’s challenges.
Success and Victory: This puja is especially effective in bringing success in difficult circumstances such as career advancement, personal struggles, or legal matters.
Removal of Obstacles and Hardships: Durga Puja helps eliminate hurdles and difficulties, paving the way for a smoother and more successful life path.
Prosperity and Growth: The blessings of Goddess Durga bring prosperity, success in business, and overall growth in both personal and professional endeavours.
Health and Well-being: This ritual also aids in healing health issues and offers protection from diseases, thereby enhancing physical and mental wellness.
Spiritual Growth and Inner Strength: Durga Puja fosters spiritual awareness and guides devotees on the path of righteousness and spiritual development.

Cultural and Social Significance of Durga Puja

The importance of Durga Puja goes beyond personal religious benefits — it stands as a significant pillar of cultural and social life.

Unity and Cultural Heritage: This festival is the grandest celebration for Bengalis and many Indians, serving as a powerful reminder of Bengal’s strength, unity, and rich cultural legacy. It fosters a spirit of togetherness, brings people from all walks of life together, and passes down traditions to future generations.
Respect and Empowerment of Women: Durga Puja emphasizes the respect and protection of women in society. Goddess Durga is portrayed as nurturing yet fierce — an unstoppable force against injustice, symbolizing the strength of womanhood. The festival highlights that feminine power is not weak, but resilient and protective.
Community Bonding: The festival acts as a platform where community bonds are strengthened, artistic and cultural expressions are showcased, and social values are reinforced. Durga Puja represents a living, evolving tradition that remains relevant in modern society. It is not merely a remembrance of the past but an active force for social harmony and cultural identity in the present.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. In which states is Durga Puja celebrated?

Durga Puja is celebrated with great devotion, faith, and enthusiasm in many Indian states. It is especially grand in West Bengal, Bihar, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Maharashtra (Mumbai), and Delhi. Apart from India, the festival is also widely observed in countries like Bangladesh and Nepal. During Navratri, Maha Navami, and Vijayadashami, these regions host various religious and cultural programs. Magnificent pandals are erected, grand idols of Goddess Durga are installed, and devotees participate in worship, hymns, bhajans, and aartis.

2. Why is Durga Puja celebrated?

Durga Puja is a highly sacred and powerful Hindu festival celebrated in honour of Goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura. According to religious belief, when Mahishasura terrorized the three worlds, Goddess Durga, created from the combined powers of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, fought him for nine days and finally defeated him. This divine triumph is commemorated through Navratri, Maha Navami, and Vijayadashami. Durga Puja is not just a religious ritual but a celebration of the victory of good over evil, worship of feminine power, and spiritual awakening. The primary goal is to seek the blessings of Goddess Durga for strength, wisdom, peace, and prosperity.

3. What to do in Durga Puja?

On the auspicious occasion of Durga Puja, devotees should follow religious rules, traditions, and worship with faith. This festival promotes spiritual practice, feminine power, and cultural unity.

1. Bathe early in the morning and wear clean clothes.

2. Purify the worship space and install the idol or image of Goddess Durga.

3. Perform Kalash Sthapana, light a lamp, and follow Shodashopachara Puja.

4. Recite Durga Saptashati or Chandi Path.

5. Offer red flowers, hibiscus, fruits, and sweets to the Goddess.

6. Fasting during Navratri enhances spiritual strength and focus.

7. Consume only sattvic food during fasting.

8. Offer meals and gifts to nine young girls, considering them as forms of the Goddess.

9. Participate in bhajans, cultural events, and night-long worship.

10. On Dashami, immerse the idol of the Goddess with proper rituals.

4. What should be done on the day of Durga Puja?

1. Bathe early and wear clean clothes; purify the worship area.

2. Perform aarti in front of the idol or picture of the Goddess and chant mantras.

3. Married women should perform the Sindoor Khela ritual, praying for marital bliss.

4. Organize bhajans, recite Durga Saptashati or Chandi Path.

5. Offer special bhog to the Goddess.

6. Share sweets and blessings with family and neighbours.

7. Exchange Vijayadashami greetings.

8. Immerse the idol of the Goddess with reverence.

9. Visit homes to wish peace, prosperity, and happiness.

10. Celebrate the conclusion with drums, dance, and devotional songs.

5. How to do Durga Puja at home?

Performing Durga Puja at home is considered sacred and highly rewarding. You can follow your family tradition or this method to please the Goddess:

1. Clean and purify the worship area.

2. Install the idol or image of Goddess Durga.

3. Set up the Kalash (holy water pot).

4. Take a vow to perform the puja.

5. Invoke the presence of the Goddess.

6. Perform worship with Shodashopachara rituals.

7. Recite Durga Saptashati or Chandi Path.

8. Offer bhog to the Goddess.

9. Perform aarti and sing devotional hymns.

10. Conclude with immersion or symbolic immersion of the puja.

6. When does Durga Puja begin in 2025?

Durga Puja in 2025 will begin on September 22, 2025, and it will conclude on October 2, 2025.

7. What should not be done during Durga Puja?

1. Avoid tamasic (heavy and negative) food.

2. Do not consume intoxicants or impure substances.

3. Avoid speaking ill of others.

4. Do not neglect your prayers or rituals.

5. Stay away from excessive indulgence or luxury.

6. Do not sleep during the day.

7. Avoid arguments and disputes.

8. Do not cut nails or hair.

9. Never disrespect priests or fellow worshippers.

10. Avoid wearing black or inauspicious colours.