Durga Puja brings Bengal alive with illuminated streets, elaborate pandals, dhak beats and the aroma of festive food. For many, it is also a time to return home, reunite with family and friends, and celebrate the arrival of Maa Durga.
Beyond the festivities, the occasion carries deep religious and cultural significance. The festival celebrates the victory of good over evil and is associated with the homecoming of the goddess. Here is a look at the important dates, rituals, history and significance of Durga Puja 2026.
Durga Puja 2026 dates
According to 'Drikpanchang', the main Durga Puja festivities begin with Maha Shashthi on October 16 and conclude with Vijaya Dashami on October 21. Mahalaya, which marks the transition from Pitri Paksha to Devi Paksha, falls on October 10.
The key dates are:
Mahalaya: Saturday, October 10
Maha Shashthi: Friday, October 16
Maha Saptami: Sunday, October 18
Maha Ashtami: Monday, October 19
Maha Navami: Tuesday, October 20
Vijaya Dashami: Wednesday, October 21
Sandhi Puja timings
Sandhi Puja will be observed on October 19, from 10:27 am to 11:15 am. The ritual marks the transition between Ashtami and Navami, covering the final 24 minutes of Ashtami and the first 24 minutes of Navami.
According to Hindu tradition, this sacred period is associated with Goddess Chamunda's victory over the demons Chanda and Munda. Special offerings, lamps and dhak performances mark the occasion at many pandals.
How Durga Puja is celebrated
The rituals begin with Shashthi, when the Goddess is welcomed through ceremonies, including 'Bodhan'. On Saptami, 'Nabapatrika Snan 'involves bathing and worshipping nine plants. Ashtami is marked by 'Pushpanjali', while some pandals also organise Kumari Puja.
Navami brings the final phase of the main worship, along with 'bhog' and 'Dhunuchi Naach'. On Dashami, married women participate in 'Sindoor Khela' before the idols are immersed. The day also marks Bijoya Dashami, when people exchange greetings and seek elders' blessings.
History and significance of Durga Puja
Durga Puja celebrates Goddess Durga's victory over Mahishasura, the buffalo demon. The legend represents the triumph of good over evil and honours Durga as an embodiment of Shakti, or divine feminine power.
In Bengali tradition, the Goddess is also regarded as a daughter returning to her parental home for a few days. Her departure on Dashami is therefore an emotional farewell, accompanied by hopes of welcoming her back the following year.
Why Durga Puja is special in Bengal
In Kolkata and across Bengal, the festival extends beyond religious ceremonies to include artistic pandals, elaborate idols, lighting, music and food. Artists, craftsmen and local communities contribute to the celebrations.
In December 2021, UNESCO added “Durga Puja in Kolkata” to its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognising the festival as an example of religion and art coming together in public life.