140 Millwick Drive, North York ON M9L 1Y6
140 Millwick Drive, North York ON M9L 1Y6
।। দেহি সৌভাগ্যম আরোগ্যম দেহি মে পরমং সুখমরূপম দেহি, জয়ং দেহি, যশো দেবি দ্বিষো জহি।। সর্বমঙ্গলা মঙ্গল্যে শিবে সর্বার্থ সাধিকেশরণ্যে ত্রয়মবকে গৌরী নারায়নী নমোহস্তু তে।। সৃষ্টি-স্থিতি বিনাশানং সর্বভূতে সনাতনী গুনাশ্রয়ে গুণময়ে নারায়নী নমোহস্তু তে ।।
Durga Puja, is more than a festival; it’s a spiritual journey. According to Hindu beliefs, Goddess Durga, the epitome of strength and compassion, descends to Earth to vanquish evil and restore harmony. It is a triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and hope over despair.
For Bengalis, Durga Puja in Toronto isn’t just a religious occasion; it’s a heartfelt connection to their roots, a celebration of life, and a time to seek blessings from the Mother Goddess.
Bangiya Parishad Toronto pledges to weave the essence of Kolkata into the Canadian landscape. Among our many initiatives, the annual Durga Puja stands out as a testament to our unwavering commitment to culture and tradition amalgamation.
The first grand celebration of Durga Puja dates back to the late 1500s, with zamindars of Dinajpur and Malda believed to have initiated it in Bengal. Another account credits Raja Kangshanarayan of Taherpur or Bhabananda Mazumdar of Nadiya with organizing the first Sharadiya (autumnal) Durga Puja around 1606.
The concept of community puja emerged in 1790 when twelve friends from Guptipara, Hooghly, organized the 'baro-yaari' or 'twelve-pal' puja by collecting contributions from local residents. This practice reached Kolkata in 1832, introduced by Raja Harinath of Cossimbazar, who had been conducting Durga Puja at his ancestral home in Murshidabad since 1824. As noted by Somendra Chandra Nandy in Durga Puja: A Rational Approach (1991), the event gained prominence through its communal efforts.
By 1910, the 'baro-yaari' tradition transitioned to the 'sarbajanin' or public puja when the Sanatan Dharmotsahini Sabha organized the first fully community-driven Durga Puja in Kolkata’s Baghbazar. With public funding, management, and participation, this new mode of celebration became the norm. This evolution of community Durga Puja played a pivotal role in shaping Hindu Bengali culture during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Durga Puja holds immense significance as it transcends religious boundaries and unites people in a grand cultural extravaganza. It’s a time when Bengalis around the globe come together to honor their traditions, revel in art and culture, and share joy with their community. This festival is a reminder of the divine power within us to overcome challenges and embrace positivity.
The rituals of Durga Puja are as intricate as they are meaningful. From “Mahalaya,” the invocation of the goddess, to the rhythmic beats of “Dhaak” during “Sandhi Puja,” every moment is steeped in tradition. The “Pushpanjali” (offering flowers) and “Sindoor Khela” (vermilion game) on the final day are emotional highlights, celebrating community bonds and the divine feminine. In Toronto, these rituals are meticulously followed, creating an authentic experience for attendees.
For Bengalis, Durga Puja is incomplete without the tradition of buying and gifting new clothes. From children eagerly flaunting their new outfits to adults sharing gifts with loved ones. This ritual symbolizes the joy of giving and receiving.
In Toronto, Bangiya Parishad ensures this tradition thrives with vibrant markets. Community events make it easier for Bengalis to indulge in their festive shopping spree.
One of the most iconic aspects of Durga Puja is the creation of magnificent puja pandals. These temporary structures, often themed and intricately designed, serve as the venue for rituals and celebrations. In Toronto, the pandals may lack the grandeur of Kolkata’s massive creations. However, they make up for it with heartwarming creativity and cultural significance. Each pandal tells a story, offering a piece of Bengal’s cultural and artistic essence.
Durga Puja is not just a festival; it’s an emotion deeply embedded in every Bengali heart. It’s the smell of incense, the sound of conch shells, and the laughter of loved ones. It’s about reconnecting with your roots and finding solace in community spirit. The festival brings a sense of belonging; these few magical days' year-long wait makes it all the more special.
Durga Puja in Toronto is more than a cultural event; it’s a celebration of identity, heritage, and togetherness. Bangiya Parishad Toronto’s tireless efforts ensure that this festival remains a beacon of joy for Bengalis living abroad. So, as the next Durga Puja approaches, let’s come together to honor our traditions and share our stories. Let’s create memories that last a lifetime.
Whether you’re a Bengali longing for the familiar warmth of home or someone new to this festival's magic. Join hands with us to embrace the cultural pride that Durga Puja brings. Let’s celebrate the goddess, the spirit of Bengal, and the unbreakable bond that unites us all.
