Durga Puja Begins with Bodhan; 33,851 Mandaps Across Bangladesh

The ceremonial observances of Sharadiya Durga Puja, the major religious festival of the Hindu community, are beginning with Bodhan, the ritual invocation of Goddess Durga. According to Hindu mythology, the ritual awakens the goddess during the period of her untimely worship. The main festivities will begin on Friday with the Adhibas ritual of Maha Shashthi.

Durga Puja traditionally runs for five days, from Maha Shashthi to Bijoya Dashami. This year, however, the festival will extend over six days because the Maha Saptami tithi falls on two days.

According to the announced schedule, Maha Saptami will be observed on Saturday, followed by an additional day of Saptami worship on Sunday. Maha Ashtami and Kumari Puja will take place on Monday, while Maha Navami will be observed on Tuesday. The festivities will conclude on Wednesday with Bijoya Dashami and the immersion of Durga idols.

According to the Bangladesh Puja Celebration Council, a total of 33,851 mandaps, or temporary worship pavilions, are hosting Durga Puja across the country this year—496 more than last year. In Dhaka city, however, the number has fallen by three to 258 after permission for puja arrangements on roads was not granted.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh Police has issued safety guidelines for organisers and visitors to help ensure peaceful and secure celebrations. In a press release, the Police Headquarters urged people not to like, comment on or share social media posts without first verifying their authenticity.

Police have advised organisers to install CCTV cameras and fire extinguishers at every puja mandap. They have also urged organisers to ensure that security volunteers wear designated clothing, visible identification cards and armbands marked “Volunteer.” Processions for idol immersion should follow designated routes.

The police have also emphasised communal harmony and public order. People have been asked to respect the religious sentiments of other communities, limit the use of sound systems at puja venues near mosques during the call to prayer and prayer times, and keep noise levels down during idol immersion. The public has also been urged to refrain from setting off fireworks and firecrackers.

Emergency control room numbers

Police Headquarters: 02223380661, 02223381967, 01320001299, 01320001300

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP): 02223355500, 01817602050

Dhakeshwari Temple Central Control Room: 029611353, 01705505529

Fire Service: 02223355555, 01713038181, 01713038182, 01730336699