It is that time of the year again when you’re allowed to be excited for no reason, or probably, for the BEST reason of all- Durga Puja! If you’ve been waiting for the last 12 months for this time of the year, then you’ve probably made a plan of the Do-s for this Durga Puja! To add to that list of Do-s, we have a list of the 10 must-have Durga puja experiences, in case you’ve missed out on a few.
Dhunuchi Naach
On Ashtami evening, during the Aarti, you’ll have to take part in the Dhunuchi Naach. Earthen pots are filled with coconut shells and lit of fire. Thus, the smoke acts as incense burners. Your job would be to take these pots, and dance to the rhythm of the Dhaaks. Sounds fun, right? This graceful dance is an absolute must-do during Durga Puja!
- Pro Tip: Beware of the falling coconut shells. They can burn your feet.
Pandal Hopping
This one goes without saying, right? You haven’t experienced Durga Puja if you haven’t made a checklist of all the best pujas out there, South and North, and checked them off one by one! Also, you have to pull off at least one all-nighter to experience the true essence of Durga Puja!
- Pro Tip: Remember, there’ll be a lot of pushing and pulling during the pandal hopping, so be prepared. But, that’s the fun of it, right?
Lots of Selfies!
Now we’re sure we don’t have to mention this to our fellow readers! Durga Puja is the time when all of our long-lost friends and relatives come together to celebrate Maa Durga. So selfies are a must to remember the amazing (and tiring!) time spent during those few days.
- Pro Tip: Be aware of your surroundings. We know it’s a happy time, but you have to keep in mind that safety comes first!
Having Bengali Cuisine
cuisine is a must-have during Durga Puja. You can’t just have Continental or Italian during this time, right? Give your tastebuds a break and taste the sweetness of a Daab-Chingri or an Ilish!
Ashtami Morning Anjali
Wear a beautiful new sari and go out on Ashtami morning for the Anjali- this is a tradition that you just cannot forget to do. Of course, you can give that experience a twist by visiting with your special someone and seeking blessings from Maa Durga together!
Enjoying Street Food
If you’re out walking and sweating in Kolkata’s hot and humid weather, you’ll feel hungry after some time. And that is where Kolkata’s street food comes- to save the day! From Fuchka to Pav-Bhaji to Jhalmuri, you’ll get it all on the street, throughout the night!
Sindur Khela
As old as Sindur is in Bengali culture, so is Sindur Khela during Durga Puja. Before the idol goes out for immersion Bengali women bid adieu to Maa Durga and play with vermillion. Picture Holi, but just in red!
Having Bhog
While having Bengali cuisines in restaurants is fine, but nothing can beat the flavour of Bhog! I’m sure standing in line behind a lot of other people is nothing when it comes to having that wonderful and flavourful meal!
Adda Sessions
When you’re not out and about pandal hopping, don’t forget to catch up on lots of adda! Bengalis are famous for their adda, and proud! Also, it is very necessary to catch up on the nitty-gritty details of what’s going on in the lives of your friends and family!
Dashami’s Bhashan
When all is done and over, don’t forget to experience Durga Puja in all its glory one last time during Bhashan or immersion of the idol. Shake a leg with your “Para” friends and have the time of your lives, while wishing for Maa Durga to come soon for the next year!
