Durga Puja is an auspicious five-day holiday that originated in the Indian subcontinent and pays respect to the goddess Maa Durga. It commemorates the goddess Durga’s triumph against demon ruler Mahishasur. According to Hindu mythology, the goddess pays a visit to her earthly residence around this period to bestow blessings on her worshippers.
Durga Puja is very important to the Bengali people. However, it is also widely observed in other states like Odisha, Assam, Tripura, Bihar, and Jharkhand with much fanfare. People begin preparations for the goddess’s arrival on Mahalaya, which was observed on October 6. Vijaya Dashami or Dussehra marks the conclusion of Durga Puja and the nine-day-long Navratri festivities. Vijay Dashami commemorates Goddess Durga’s victory over demon ruler Mahishasura. On the other side, Dussehra or Dasara commemorates Lord Rama’s triumph over Ravana.