India, a land of rich cultural heritage, is known for its diverse festivals that celebrate various gods and goddesses. One such vibrant and auspicious festival is Jagadhatri Puja celebrated mainly in the Hooghly district of West Bengal. Devotees worship and celebrate reincarnation of goddess Durga in the name of Jagadhatri, the Divine Mother of the Universe and create the splendid ambiance with high festive spirits. The festival is also celebrated at Chandannagar, Krishnanagar, Nadia and Kolkata after Durga Puja and Kali Puja in the month of Kartik. This festival brings people together in joyous reverence of the benevolent deity. Let us explore the significance and grandeur of Jagadhatri Puja and understand its cultural and spiritual importance.
The primary objective of Jagadhatri Puja is to honor and seek the blessings of Goddess Jagadhatri, who is revered as the embodiment of divine power and protection. She is considered the savior of the universe, the one who maintains balance and order in the world. The name "Jagadhatri" itself signifies her role as the "holder of the world." Devotees believe that worshipping her can dispel darkness, eradicate evil, and bestow prosperity and well-being.
The history of worship of the goddess Jagatdhatri in Bengal varies, with popular narratives suggesting it began by Maharaja Krishnachandra of Krishnanagar, Nadia. Local history suggests that the worship was first established by Chandrachur Tarkamani of Santipur, who made an idol of the goddess at the behest of Raja Girishchandra. The Jaleshwara temple of Shantipur and Raghaveshwara temple have idols of the goddess inside their sanctum sanctorum and carved on the temple walls. Raj Rajeshwary Jagatdhatri Puja is one of the oldest in Bengal, started by Maharaja Krishnachandra after being arrested for not paying taxes. The Jagatdhatri puja of the Bose family, Palpara, is considered one of the oldest in Bengal, with family records dating back to 1640.
The first textual mention of Jagadhatri puja comes from Kalviveka of Smarta Shulapani, and the goddess is worshipped during Shukla Paksha of the pious month of Kartika, especially the Tithi of Navami. The oldest temple of the goddess is in Somra, Mahavidya temple, Dekhuria village, Birbhum, Baligram village, Bandyopadhyay family of Mirhat of Kalna, and the 350-year-old Chandrapati family's kuladevi is Jagrata.
| # | Date | Title | Content |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nov. 19, 2023 | Sasthi - Shukla Paksha | Maha Sasthi - Similar as Durga Puja |
| 2 | Nov. 20, 2023 | Maha Saptami - Shukla Paksha | Maha Saptami - Similar As Durga Puja |
| 3 | Nov. 21, 2023 | Maha Asthami - Shukla Paksha | Maha Ashtami - Similar as Durga Puja |
| 4 | Nov. 22, 2023 | Maha Nabami - Shukla Paksha | Maha Nabami - Last Day of Puja |
| 5 | Nov. 23, 2023 | Maha Dashami | Maha Dashami - Bisorjon |
The preparations for Jagadhatri Puja commence days in advance. Elaborate and artistic pandals (temporary structures) are constructed to house the beautifully adorned idols of Goddess Jagadhatri. Skilled artisans and craftsmen pour their creativity into crafting exquisite idols, often depicting the goddess in her tranquil form, radiating love and compassion. The idols are decorated with vibrant clothes, jewelry, and flowers, further enhancing their divine aura.
During the puja, devotees perform various rituals and prayers to seek the blessings of Goddess Jagadhatri. Elaborate rituals involving chanting of mantras, offering of flowers, incense, and sweets, and the lighting of lamps are carried out. The atmosphere is filled with the sound of devotional songs and hymns praising the goddess. Cultural events, such as dance performances, music concerts, and theatrical plays, are also organized to entertain and engage the community.
Jagadhatri Puja is not just a religious festival; it is a celebration of art, culture, and community spirit. It brings people from all walks of life together, transcending barriers of caste, creed, and social status. The streets are adorned with colorful decorations, and processions are taken out, with devotees carrying the idol of Goddess Jagadhatri on beautifully decorated floats. The air is filled with a sense of joy, unity, and devotion as people participate in the festivities with fervor and zeal.
Apart from its cultural significance, Jagadhatri Puja also holds immense spiritual value. It reminds us of the power of the Divine Mother, who protects and nurtures the universe. The festival instills a sense of gratitude, humility, and reverence towards the feminine aspect of the divine, emphasizing the importance of female empowerment and equality in society.
Jagadharti Puja transcends barriers of caste, creed, and social status, bringing people from all walks of life together. It promotes a sense of community bonding and fosters social harmony. The festival is an opportunity for individuals to reconnect with their roots, strengthen family ties, and forge new friendships.
Jagadhatri Puja is a grand festival that celebrates the Divine Mother of the Universe, Goddess Jagadhatri. It combines spirituality, art, and community participation, creating an atmosphere of joy and devotion. The festival serves as a reminder of the power of the divine feminine and the importance of maintaining harmony and balance in the world.
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