Bengalis celebrates last day of Durga Puja, with vibrant processions and the immersion of Durga idols, symbolizing her return home after defeating Mahishasura. Rituals include Sindoor Khela, where married women apply vermilion on each other, and festive gatherings filled with music and dance.
Every year Durga Puja started from Panchami and ends on Bijaya Dashami.
Key rituals performed during last day of Durga Puja include:
Sindoor Khela: Sindur Khela, or “vermillion game,” is a vibrant Bengali and Assamese tradition celebrated on Bijayadashami, the final day of Durga Puja. On this day, married women apply sindur to the goddess Durga’s idol and then to each other, symbolizing marital bliss and unity. This ritual fosters camaraderie and is believed to invoke blessings for the long lives of their husbands and families. Sindur Khela not only highlights cultural significance in West Bengal but also in northeastern states like Assam, Meghalaya and Tripura, marking a joyous farewell to the goddess before her immersion
Idol Immersion (Visarjan): Clay idols of Goddess Durga are carried in processions to rivers or ponds for immersion, symbolizing her return to her celestial abode.
Dhunuchi Naach: A traditional dance performed to the rhythm of dhunuchi (incense burners) during the celebrations.
Farewell Prayers: Devotees offer prayers and seek blessings as they bid farewell to the goddess.
