Festivals in Kolkata

Festivals in Kolkata are all about celebrations, mirth and ceremony. The city absorbing a population of over 13 million Bengalis, come alive during the festive season. For the young as well as the old, its time for party as well as celebration. The festivals that are rejoiced in Kolkata are typified by food, fanfare, noise, religious hymns and processions. During these festive days the shopping outlets as well as the city marts exude all the “glitz and the glamour.” The streets are choked by the huge mob of Kolkatans who walk out of their respective residences, kitchens and are all set to be a part of the festive mood.

Various Festivals in Kolkata

We have listed down for you some of the popular festivals in Kolkata that are celebrated with full fun and vigor. They are:-

Kali Puja This is held post nineteen days of Durga Puja, when the city is all geared up to celebrate Kali Puja. Goddess Kali is worshipped and looked upon as Mother Goddess who protects her disciples and devotees from evil. Most Bengalis during this time visit the Kalighat Temple and the Dakshineswar to pay their homage to the deity. In addition to this, these two places are famous power spots that serenade the presence and power of Goddess Kali.

Durga Puja
Durga Puja takes place during the month of October and is a celebration of the divine “Sacred Feminine”. One of the most important festivals amongst the Bengalis, the festival commemorates the triumph of the Goddess Durga over the mythical demon named Mahishashura. You can hear the sounds of the Dhak, smell the incenses sticks burning and even take part in the famous Dhunuchi dance, typical of West Bengal. Most of the eminent pandals in the city where the puja is held is financed and organized the business barons and landlords.

Lakshmi Puja
The celebration of Lakshmi Puja takes place in the month of October, after fives days of Mahadashami. Lakshmi is known as the Goddess of wealth, good fortune, beauty and light. Going by mythology she was said to be the daughter of Bhrigu, a sage who sought refuge in an ocean of milk when the Gods went to exile.

Saraswati Puja
This festival takes place between the months of January to end February. The festival is also known as Vasant Panchami. Saraswati is known as the goddess of learning. Students, teachers, artists and others involved with academics observe the puja with great respect and dedication. Going by mythology, “Panchami” is considered as Saraswati Day, the day when Goddess Saraswati was born.

Other festivals in Kolkata that people observe are:-

• Vidyasagar Mela
• Pous Mela
• Rabindra Jayanti
• Dol Purnima
• Rathyatra
• Bhai Phota
• Poila Baisakh
• Charak Puja
• Jamai Shasthi