Festivals, Traditions, and Religion play a profound role in shaping human existence. Across cultures and generations, these elements provide a sense of identity, purpose, and community. People are identified by the religions and celebration of the festivals.
Celebrations, festivals, and family rituals create shared experiences and strengthen relationships.
The residents of Sector A, Pocket B & C,Vasant Kunj celebrated Durga Puja and Navaratri with full enthusiasm. The idol of Ma Durga was placed in the Community Hall, the Bengali community organized Puja. The hard work and the preparation of Puja was done by organizers S. Chowdhuri, Tanu Shree Ganguli, and P K Pal. The community put in a lot of effort to display their talents and cultural activities. Food stalls were set up and sumptuous snacks and food were enjoyed by all. Residents of the colony visited the Pandal in the evening in their best attire and offered prayers to Ma Durga. The ladies, gents, and children were all dressed up for the occasion.
Durga Puja coincides with Dussehra and during these ten days the Ram Lela is organized in North India. On the final day of Durga Puja the Idols of Goddess Durga are immersed in rivers and other water bodies. The immersion symbolizes Maa Durga’s return to her divine abode.Also on this day, the Bengali Community along with the others plays with the colour. This ritual is known as “Sindoor Khela”, dressed in Bengal’s traditional white saree with red border women first offer ‘Sindoor’ to Maa Durga with betel leaf, then apply ‘Sindoor’ to each other and perform the ritual of “Sindoor Khela”. Sindoor, or vermilion, is an auspicious symbol of marriage. The ritual of applying Sindoor to each other’s foreheads and faces strengthens the power of women’s matrimony.
Many people kept fast during Navratri, a vibrant and deeply spiritual time in India. This period is marked by nine nights of devotion, music, dance, and rituals dedicated to the Goddess Durga, who symbolizes power and purity. Navratri is synonymous with the energetic and colourful Dandiya Raas and Garba dances. Dandiya, a traditional folk dance from Gujarat, has gained immense popularity across the country and among Indian communities worldwide. Performed during the Navratri festival, Dandiya involves rhythmic, synchronised movements with colourful sticks, known as Dandiyas. In the present context, Dandiya holds significant cultural and social importance.
Firstly, Dandiya acts as a vibrant expression of cultural heritage, allowing people to connect with their roots and preserve traditional customs. It fosters a sense of community and unity, as people of all ages and backgrounds come together to dance in large groups, creating a festive and inclusive atmosphere.
Moreover, Dandiya has evolved to fit contemporary lifestyles, with modern music and innovative choreography making it appealing to the younger generation. This evolution ensures its relevance and continuity in today’s fast-paced world. Dandiya events often serve as platforms for socializing and networking, promoting intercultural exchange and understanding. In essence, Dandiya not only celebrates tradition but also adapts to and enriches the present-day cultural landscape. Dandiya in our sector was organized by the Shiv Shakti Mandir Committee of the Sector. These traditional dances were performed by the residents who participated in large community gatherings, where men women, and children dressed in elaborate costumes danced rhythmically to the beats of music and devotional songs. The circular and spiral formations of Garba symbolize the cyclical nature of life, while Dandiya Raas, performed with decorated sticks, represents the battle between Durga and the demon Mahishasura. Cultural customs during this time included setting up beautifully adorned altars for the Goddess, fasting, and participating in religious ceremonies. The festival fosters a sense of community, devotion, and cultural pride, celebrating the triumph of good over evil.The festival fosters a sense of community, devotion, and cultural pride,
Different ways of offering prayer to the Maa Durga by devotees of different faiths reflect their diverse traditions and beliefs. One common practice is the organisation of Bhandara, a community feast that is open to all cross-sections of people, symbolising unity, and equality. Dr. Sheetal Dhwan with her family, All Residents’ Welfare staff, and the Shiv Shakti Mandir Committee organised the Community Bhandara on Saptami, Astmi, and Naomi (7th day, 8th day, and 9th day of Navratri. These traditions and customs and rituals are deeply rooted in the minds of the people.
We may have become modern and reached the moon but we cannot leave our old customs and traditions. Religion is deep-rooted in all of us.
