Durga Puja, Bengal’s most celebrated festival, has a history as colourful and layered as the region itself.  While folklore suggests that Durga was initially worshipped by zamindars in Bengal’s Maldah or Dinajpur, the first documented Durga Puja in Bengal dates back to 1606 in the Nadia district.

It was organised by Bhavananda, who was the ancestor of Maharaja Krishnachandra. The festival gained prominence during Maharaja Krishnachandra’s reign. However, in Calcutta, now Kolkata, the oldest continuing Durga Puja belongs to the Savarna Chowdhury family of Barisha, initiated in 1610. This puja still happens today in the old-fashioned way.

A pivotal moment in the festival’s history came in 1757 when Raja Nabakrishna Dev’s Durga Puja at Sovabajar Rajbari became a template for others to follow. The festival established a new paradigm where the festival evolved into a symbol of fashion, status, and prestige among traders and the elite. The number of European guests or ‘Sahibs’ attending these family pujas became a measure of social standing, further cementing the festival’s importance in Bengali society.

This is how Durga Puja changed from only a religious festival to a prominent social event. Today, Durga Puja is still the most important festival in Bengal, bringing everyone together to celebrate. UNESCO added Durga Puja to its Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2021, acknowledging its significance. In 2024, this recognition continues to boost cultural tourism and international interest in the festival.

In the rich history of Bengali culture, Akal Bodhan stands out as a unique tradition that challenges the usual timing of divine worship. This special awakening of Devi Durga during the autumn month of Ashwin showcases the deep connection between mythology and devotion in Bengali spiritual life.

The name ‘Akal Bodhan’ itself is meaningful. ‘Akal’ means ‘untimely,’ and ‘Bodhan’ means ‘invocation.’ Together, they describe a goddess woken from her heavenly sleep at an unusual time. It is because, typically, people worship Durga in spring during Basanti Puja. But this autumn celebration holds a special place in Bengali hearts, rooted in the famous story of Ramayana.

The legend tells of Lord Rama’s urgent plea to the goddess as he prepared to fight the demon king Ravana. Rama needed Durga’s blessings to overcome Ravana, who had divine protection. As the story goes, Rama was ready to offer his own eye when he fell short of one blue lotus in the ritual offering of 108 flowers. Touched by his dedication, Durga appeared before him, blessed his mission, and set the stage for good to triumph over evil.

This autumn invocation, happening when the goddess is usually resting, became known as ‘Akal Bodhan.’ It reminds us that true devotion doesn’t follow a calendar and that the divine can respond to sincere prayers at any time.

Today, Akal Bodhan is the spiritual heart of Bengal’s grand Durga Puja celebrations. It turns the region into a lively display of devotion, art, and community spirit. From Kolkata’s busy streets to quiet village corners, the goddess’s unexpected awakening becomes a time of joyful reunion.

Get ready to witness the grandest celebrations in Kolkata because Durga Puja is almost here! With just a month left (October 9-13), the city is buzzing with excitement. The top pandals are halfway done, and this year’s themes are going to blow your mind! From cultural icons to social issues, these 10 must-visit pandals are the ultimate head-turners. Check them out:

In Kolkata for Durga Puja? Here is your Ultimate Street Food Guide!

Kolkata during Durga Puja is not just about the stunning pandals and vibrant festivities; it’s also about diving into some serious street food adventures. The city turns into a culinary carnival, and every lane and street is filled with sizzling treats, spicy delights, and unique flavours. Get ready to explore the must-have street foods in the City of Joy during Durga Puja!

Durga Puja’s spirit knows no boundaries. From the bustling streets of Kolkata to the vibrant communities across the globe, the festival’s essence remains alive and thriving. This section takes you on a worldwide journey, featuring top locations worldwide where local communities celebrate this grand festival in different corners of the world.