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Durga Puja

Immerse in the spirit of Durga Puja! Rejoice in dance, music, and vibrant colors as we celebrate the triumph of good over evil.

Friday

16–20

October 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEDurga Puja (Maha Shashthi → Vijayadashami, 5d)

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYReligion

SUBCATEGORYHindu

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Bring out your festive mood because Durga Puja, one of the most anticipated holidays of the year, is coming on October 10! This vibrant and colorful celebration is a tribute to the Hindu goddess Durga and is a major event in the Indian subcontinent, particularly in Bengal. The history of Durga Puja goes back many centuries and is steeped in tradition and mythology. The festival celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon king Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. Get ready to relish the feeling of community, enjoy the music, the dance, and soak in the celestial love of Durga Puja!

TIMELINE

Durga Puja Timeline

Early Origins of Durga Puja

The earliest references to Durga Puja can be found in late medieval texts. It grew proportionately with the rise of Shaktism, a major tradition of Hinduism focusing on goddess cults.

Landlord-Sponsored Celebrations

During the 18th century, large-scale community celebrations became common. Landlords and kings sponsored grand Durga Pujas, often as expressions of their power and status.

Raja Rammohan Roy's Impact

Raja Rammohan Roy, a social reformer, advocated against superficial rituals and inaccessible priests. His influence shaped a more personal, interactive shape of Durga Puja.

Durga Puja and Indian Nationalism

During the partition of Bengal in 1905, Durga Puja became a means of expressing Indian nationalism against British rule.

Commercialization of Durga Puja

From the 1970s, corporate sponsorships transformed Durga Puja into a grander festival, further enhancing its appeal and scale.

Global Durga Puja Celebrations

Today, Durga Puja is not just limited to India. It is celebrated with enthusiasm across the globe, reflecting the widespread diaspora of Indian culture.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Durga Puja

Create vibrant Rangoli designs

Rangoli is an art form that originated in India. These designs are usually made out of colored rice or powders during festivals. This Durga Puja, bring your creative side forward and create intricate, colorful Rangoli designs at the entrance of your home.

PREPARE

Prepare traditional dishes

Cooking is an integral part of Durga Puja. This festive season, delve into the world of traditional flavors by preparing dishes like Shorshe Ilish, Begun Bhaja or Mishti Doi. Sharing these delicacies with friends and family will add to the joy and spirit of the festival.

PARTICIPATE

Participate in cultural performances

Drama and dance performances are a key feature of Durga Puja celebrations. You can participate in a local community performance or even organize a skit or dance number among family members to showcase talent and be part of the festivities.

ORGANIZE

Organize a Garba night

Garba is a traditional Gujarati folk dance performed with a lot of grace and enthusiasm during Durga Puja. Organizing a Garba night at home or with friends is a fun way to indulge in festivities, socialize and get into the spirit of Durga Puja.

DONATE

Donate to the needy

Durga Puja is all about spreading joy and positivity. This Durga Puja, take time to donate food, clothes or essential items to the needy. This small act of kindness will reflect the true spirit of Durga Puja and bring warmth to someone's heart.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Durga Puja is Important

Durga Puja brings communities together

This beautiful festival creates a profound sense of community, encouraging people to come together in mutual celebration and camaraderie. Be it through organizing a Garba night or generously donating to the needy, Durga Puja fosters a spirit of unity and love among individuals.

Durga Puja symbolizes the victory of good over evil

Durga Puja commemorates the triumph of Goddess Durga over the demon king Mahishasura, underscoring the powerful message that good inevitably conquers evil. This profound theme resonates with people universally and serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration.

Durga Puja is a cultural treasure trove

From vibrant Rangoli designs and traditional culinary delights to lively performances, Durga Puja is a window into the rich cultural heritage of India. It presents an opportunity to experience and appreciate the diverse traditions associated with the festival, further enhancing its appeal.