What is Durga Puja?
Durga Puja is the worship of Goddess Durga, a powerful form of the Divine Mother (Shakti). She is celebrated for her victory over the demon Mahishasura, symbolising the triumph of good over evil.
The name also refers to the grand autumn festival celebrated especially in West Bengal and eastern India. In many homes, Durga Puja during Navratri includes Ghatasthapana (Kalash Sthapana), recitation of the Durga Saptashati (Devi Mahatmya) and Kanya Puja.
When is Durga Puja performed?
Durga Puja is most commonly performed:
- During Sharad Navratri and the Durga Puja festival in autumn
- During Chaitra Navratri in spring
- On Ashtami and Navami, including Kanya Puja
- At homes, offices and community gatherings during the festive season
- On other occasions when a family wishes to worship the Goddess
Your Pandit can help you choose a suitable date and time (muhurat) for your occasion.
Traditional purpose and significance
Devotees worship Durga to seek her blessings for courage, protection and the removal of negativity, and to celebrate the victory of righteousness. The festival also brings families and communities together in devotion.
Rituals differ widely between regions, from Bengali Durga Puja traditions to Navratri observances in North and West India, so it helps to choose a Pandit familiar with your tradition.
What is generally required
Typical preparations and samagri for Durga Puja include:
- An idol or picture of Goddess Durga on a decorated platform
- A kalash with water, mango leaves and a coconut, and a red chunri or cloth
- Red flowers such as hibiscus, garlands and shringar items for the Goddess
- Kumkum, sindoor, haldi, akshat, incense and a ghee diya (or akhand jyoti)
- Fruits, sweets and bhog as per family custom
- Barley and soil for Ghatasthapana, if your tradition includes it
Requirements vary by tradition, region and family custom. Your Pandit will confirm the exact list, and whether samagri is arranged by you or by them, before the ceremony.
How booking works on PujaGuru
Booking Durga Puja takes a few minutes in the PujaGuru app:
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Choose Your Puja
Explore available Hindu pujas, rituals, ceremonies and spiritual services in the PujaGuru app.
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Find Your Pandit
Review available Pandit profiles, expertise, services and availability.
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Discuss Your Requirements
Use the in-app chat to talk to your Pandit and clarify ceremony details, samagri and timing.
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Book Your Service
Select your preferred date and time and confirm your booking.
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Complete Your Puja
Connect with your Pandit and experience your ceremony with greater convenience and confidence.
Availability of specific pujas and Pandits varies by location and date. The PujaGuru app shows what is currently available near you.
Durga Puja FAQs
Can I book a Pandit for Durga Puja at home?
Yes. Many families perform Durga Puja or Navratri rituals at home. Discuss the days, rituals and timing with your Pandit in the app.
What is the difference between Durga Puja and Navratri?
Navratri is the nine-night festival of the Goddess observed across India. Durga Puja usually refers to the festival as celebrated in Bengal and eastern India, and to the worship of Durga more generally.
Is Durga Saptashati path included?
It depends on the service and your tradition. Some families include a full or partial recitation of the Durga Saptashati. Confirm with your Pandit before booking.
How early should I book during Navratri?
Navratri and Durga Puja are busy times for Pandits, so it helps to reach out early. Availability is shown in the app and varies by location.
How do I book Durga Puja on PujaGuru?
Download the PujaGuru app, choose the puja, review available Pandit profiles, discuss your requirements in the in-app chat, then pick a date and time and confirm your booking. Availability varies by location.