There has never been a time when West Bengal has not provided some form of entertainment or activity that has moved the happening of many; so much so, that the celebrations in the state are believed to have variously influenced the Indian nation, making it a kaleidoscope of different cultures. Here are some of the top 10 famous festivals of West Bengal.
1. Durga Puja
Undoubtedly, Durga Puja holds the most prominent place on West Bengal’s festival calendar. The grand festival takes place during the period of either September or October; it comes there to remember Goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura. The streets come alive with lavish pandals, artistic idols, and cultural performances during this time.
2. Kali Puja
Celebrated on the eve of Diwali, Kali Puja is devoted entirely to Goddess Kali. Homes as well as temples are lighted with lamps and candles during Saraswati Puja for the blessings and to keep evil forces away from one’s lives.
3. Saraswati Puja
This festival is mostly conducted in January or February. Dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, this ritual honors the deity of wisdom and education. This festival is also relatively quite popular among the students, who wear the traditional outfit and pray for success in their studies.
4. Poila Boishakh
Although it is Bengali New Year, celebrated on the first day of the Bengali calendar, usually falling in mid April, still, some form of celebration is arranged through cultural programs, feasting, and traditional rituals meant to omen new beginnings and prosperity.
5. Rath Yatra
The Rath Yatra is a big function, more so in Mahesh, Hooghly, and Kolkata of West Bengal. The chariots bearing the idols of Lord Jagannath, Subhadra, and Balabhadra are drawn by devotees with an exhilarating gesture that adorns the town.
7. Jhulan Yatra
This festival of rains commemorates the divine love of Lord Krishna and Radha. Throng in the temples with fervor for this colorful swing,flower-adorned.
8. Jamai Shashti
The son-in-law worship festival is very interesting, with Jamai Shashti beginning with feasts and gifts and bonds shared in the family. It is a Bengali tradition cherished by virtually all Bengali families.
9. Poush Mela
The cultural fair is attended at Shantiniketan, this harvest season is celebrated with folk music and tribal dances along with stalls decorated with traditional handicrafts.
10. Christmas
Christmas in Kolkata is celebrated on Park Street. Illuminated streets, midnight masses, and special sweets bring communities together in this festival.
West Bengal, in itself, gives a taste of the state by festivals which convey the belongingness to the culture and love for celebrations.
