The History of Durga Puja in India: A Glorious Cultural Tradition

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Durga Puja, one of the most significant festivals in India, particularly in West Bengal, Assam, Odisha, and parts of Bihar, is an annual celebration of the goddess Durga"s triumph over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. Rooted in the ancient scriptures and traditions of Hinduism, this festival has evolved into a grand cultural event, blending devotion, art, music, and community spirit. The history of Durga Puja is rich and complex, dating back centuries, and reflecting India"s diverse cultural and religious landscape.

Mythological Origins

The origins of Durga Puja can be traced to the Devi Mahatmya (also known as the Chandi Path), a text from the Markandeya Purana, dating to around the 5th-6th centuries CE. According to the myth, Mahishasura, a demon who could change his form at will, became so powerful that he threatened the gods. In response, the gods combined their divine energies to create Durga, the supreme goddess. Equipped with powerful weapons and riding a lion, Durga waged a fierce battle with Mahishasura for nine days and finally slew him on the tenth day, which is celebrated as Vijayadashami or Dussehra.

This mythological narrative not only forms the spiritual foundation of Durga Puja but also symbolizes the victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and the empowerment of women.

### Historical Development

Early Celebrations

While Durga"s worship has been part of Hindu tradition for millennia, the grand, public Durga Puja as we know it today is believed to have originated in Bengal during the late medieval period. The festival gained prominence in the 16th century under the patronage of wealthy landowners (zamindars) and kings. The landlords of Bengal would organize lavish Durga Puja ceremonies in their homes, using the festival as a platform to display their wealth and prestige.

One of the earliest recorded Durga Puja celebrations was organized by Raja Kangshanarayan of Taherpur in Nadia district in the early 16th century. Another prominent historical reference is from the 18th century, when Nabakrishna Deb, a zamindar in Kolkata, hosted an elaborate Durga Puja to celebrate Robert Clive"s victory at the Battle of Plassey in 1757. These early celebrations were largely exclusive, aristocratic affairs, focused on rituals and social gatherings within the confines of the homes of the elite.

#### The Rise of Community Pujas (Sarbojanin Puja)

Durga Puja underwent a transformation in the late 19th and early 20th centuries during British colonial rule in India. With the rise of urbanization and the growing Bengali middle class, Durga Puja began to move out of the private homes of the rich and into public spaces. The first community puja, or **Sarbojanin Puja**, was organized in Kolkata in 1910, making the festival more accessible to common people.

This shift was significant because Durga Puja became more than a religious event—it became a symbol of Bengali identity and unity. The festival fostered a sense of community, bringing together people from all walks of life, regardless of caste or class. During the freedom struggle, the festival even took on a nationalist dimension, with public Durga Pujas becoming a space for anti-colonial gatherings and the expression of Indian cultural pride.

### The Artistic Evolution of Durga Puja

One of the defining features of Durga Puja today is the artistic splendor of the idols and the pandals (temporary structures) where the idols are placed. Over the centuries, Durga Puja has evolved into an artistic spectacle, with intricate clay idols of the goddess Durga and elaborate, theme-based pandals attracting millions of visitors.

In the 19th century, Durga idols were primarily crafted by local artisans using traditional methods, with the goddess depicted in a simple, majestic form. However, from the 20th century onwards, the craftsmanship of idols reached new heights of artistic expression. Modern pandal-making has become a competitive art form, where groups vie to outdo each other by creating larger-than-life installations, often with socio-political themes, or recreating famous landmarks, mythological scenes, and even abstract concepts.

Artisans from Kumartuli, a traditional potters" quarter in Kolkata, play a central role in this process. They craft the idols, paying attention to every detail, from the facial expressions of the goddess to the intricate designs of her attire. Over the years, these artists have embraced contemporary trends, often incorporating new materials and techniques into their creations.

### Durga Puja Today

Durga Puja has grown beyond its religious and regional roots to become a global cultural phenomenon. In modern times, especially in cities like Kolkata, it is celebrated with an unparalleled level of grandeur and enthusiasm. The festival has become a five-day-long carnival, with extravagant decorations, cultural performances, and a vibrant display of local and contemporary art forms.

Millions of people take part in the festivities by visiting pandals, participating in rituals, and enjoying cultural programs. Streets are lined with food stalls, lights, and people celebrating late into the night. The festival has also become a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from across the globe to witness the spectacle of Durga Puja in Bengal.

In 2021, UNESCO recognized Kolkata"s Durga Puja as an "Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity," acknowledging its significance not only as a religious festival but also as a cultural event that brings together communities through art, performance, and creativity.

### Conclusion

Durga Puja is not just a religious festival—it is a celebration of life, culture, and community. Its history is deeply rooted in mythology and tradition, yet it continues to evolve, reflecting the dynamic and diverse nature of Indian society. From its aristocratic origins to its status as a global cultural event, Durga Puja remains a symbol of resilience, creativity, and devotion, celebrating the timeless victory of good over evil.