Wishing everyone a Happy Durga Puja!

Durga Puja is more than a festival. It is a celebration of faith, culture, community and the triumph of good over evil. For millions of people, particularly in Bengal, it is also a time of homecoming, togetherness and renewed hope.

As the familiar sound of the dhaak fills the air, streets light up, and families prepare for celebrations, Durga Puja reminds us of something important: traditions need not belong only to the past. Many of the rituals we observe carry messages that remain remarkably relevant to modern life.

Maha Shasthi marks the ceremonial awakening of Maa Durga through Devi Bodhon. It signifies the beginning of the main festivities and the welcoming of the Goddess.

In today's world, this spirit of welcome can extend beyond religious observances. We live in increasingly diverse communities, where people have different backgrounds, beliefs and circumstances. The true spirit of welcoming lies in making others feel included, respected and valued. Whether at home, in the workplace or within society, inclusion helps create stronger communities.

One of the important rituals of Maha Saptami is Nabapatrika Snan, involving the ceremonial bathing of nine plants associated with the Goddess. This ritual reflects the close relationship between nature and traditional beliefs.

At a time when environmental concerns are growing, its message deserves renewed attention. Conserving water, reducing waste, protecting trees and adopting sustainable practices are no longer optional responsibilities. Our reverence for nature becomes meaningful when reflected in our everyday choices.

Maha Ashtami is among the most significant days of Durga Puja. In some traditions, Kumari Puja honours the divine feminine through the worship of a young girl.

The ritual offers an opportunity to reflect on how society treats girls and women. Respect cannot remain confined to a ceremonial occasion. It must translate into equal access to education, safety, healthcare, financial independence and opportunities.

A society that worships feminine strength should also create conditions in which women can exercise that strength freely.

The sacred Homa, performed during Maha Navami, involves offerings into a consecrated fire. Beyond its religious significance, the ritual can inspire a contemporary reflection on the need to overcome negativity.

Prejudice, intolerance, misinformation and discrimination continue to affect society. Education, empathy and constructive dialogue can help address these challenges. Just as the sacred fire represents purification, our actions can reflect a commitment to becoming more responsible and compassionate individuals.

Durga Puja also supports countless livelihoods. From artisans and decorators to small retailers, food vendors, transport providers and local entrepreneurs, the celebrations generate opportunities across communities. Supporting these enterprises, respecting their work and celebrating responsibly can make the festival more meaningful.

As we welcome Maa Durga, let us also welcome positive change into our lives.

May this Durga Puja inspire us to be more inclusive, environmentally conscious, respectful, compassionate and connected.

Subho Sharadiya!