Pune: The Aikatan Durgotsav Committee marked the fourth year of its Durga Puja celebrations with grandeur, drawing inspiration from the sacred Kedarnath temple for its elaborate pandal decoration.

Artisans from Kolkata were specially invited to design the pandal, which added a touch of authenticity to the celebration.

This year’s puja was celebrated with utmost dedication, highlighted by the significant ritual of Kanya Pujan on Navami. President Anindya Roy and his wife Anindita Roy led the ceremony, which is regarded as a vital part of Durga Puja, symbolizing the festival’s completion.

During Kanya Pujan, young girls, representing the nine forms of Goddess Durga, were honored with gifts of clothes and jewelry by the committee.

Kanya Pujan, deeply rooted in Hindu tradition, carries profound spiritual and cultural significance. The ritual not only symbolizes the purity and innocence of the goddess but also acknowledges the divine feminine power. In addition, it is believed to bring blessings of prosperity, peace, and happiness to the devotees.

Throughout the celebrations, devotees were treated to live orchestra performances, evening musical events, and delicious bhog served during the day. The festive atmosphere created a blend of spirituality and entertainment for the attendees.

The festivities culminated on Dashami with the traditional Sindoor Khela, where women adorned the deity with vermillion and then applied it to one another, symbolizing feminine strength, prosperity, and protection.

This age-old ritual is a key aspect of Durga Puja, reflecting the cultural and spiritual values associated with the celebration.

Inputs by Prayaga Hoge