Jagadhatri Puja is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to the goddess Jagadhatri, who is revered as a universal mother and protector. It is primarily celebrated in the Indian state of West Bengal and in some parts of Odisha. Jagadhatri Puja is a festival that honors Goddess Jagadhatri, a form of the Divine Mother who is considered to be the embodiment of peace, compassion, and protection. The term “Jagadhatri” means “Supporter of the Universe,” reflecting her role as the nurturer of all creation.
Celebration
Jagadhatri Puja is celebrated with immense glee and joy in Hooghly district of West Bengal.The festival was initiated by Sarada Devi, Sri Ramakrishna’s wife who was believed to be reincarnation of the Goddess and still observed with high spirits in the centers of the Ramkrishna Mission all over the world.
The worship of Goddess Jagadhatri is believed to have ancient roots, but the modern form of the festival was popularized in the 18th century by the ruler of the Bardhaman princely state, Maharaja Kirtchandra Roy.
The Puja is popularly called as the reincarnation of goddess Durga, the savior to destroy evil and set peace on the earth. The festival celebrates the divine feminine power of Jagadhatri and her role in sustaining and protecting the universe.
The festival is celebrated in the grandiose manner by setting huge idols of the Goddess Jagadhatri in spectacular pandals amidst stunning illumination.
The idol of goddess is decked up beautifully by red clothes and ornaments. The goddess is also presented garland around the neck.
The idol is made similar to that of Goddess Durga as Goddess Jagadhatri also holds a conch and a bow in her two left hands and in her two right hands, a chakra and a five-headed arrow and her mount is a tiger.
Passages from Chandi, the sacred text, are recited on this day and later the image of the goddess is immersed as in Durga Puja. Devotees gather together to worship the Goddess and celebrate the occasion with full devotion.
Time of Celebration
Jagadhatri Puja is celebrated on the fourth day of the waxing moon (Chaturthi Tithi) of the Hindu month of Kartika (October-November). The date can vary each year based on the lunar calendar.Rituals and Celebrations
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Preparation:
- Pandal Decoration: Temples and community spaces are elaborately decorated with flowers, lights, and traditional motifs.
- Idol Installation: A beautifully crafted idol of Goddess Jagadhatri is installed in the pandal (temporary pavilion).
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Puja Rituals:
- Morning Rituals: The day begins with a series of rituals including the bathing of the idol, offering of flowers, incense, and food.
- Bhog Offering: Special dishes are prepared and offered to the goddess as part of the bhog (offering), which includes traditional sweets, fruits, and cooked foods.
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Processions:
- Cultural Processions: In many places, there are vibrant processions with music, dance, and singing, celebrating the goddess’s glory.
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Cultural Events:
- Festive Activities: The festival includes various cultural events such as drama performances, traditional dances, and music recitals.
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Community Involvement:
- Feasts and Gatherings: People come together for communal meals and festive gatherings during the celebrations.
Locations of Major Celebrations
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Kolkata:
- Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is known for its grand Jagadhatri Puja celebrations. Several prominent neighborhoods and temples host large-scale festivities.
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Bardhaman:
- Bardhaman, the place where the festival was popularized, hosts traditional and elaborate celebrations in honor of Goddess Jagadhatri.
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Howrah:
- The Howrah district of West Bengal also sees significant observance of Jagadhatri Puja with various community events and rituals.
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Odisha:
- Some regions of Odisha also celebrate Jagadhatri Puja with traditional rituals and community gatherings.
जगद्धात्री मां की पूजा और अन्य जानकारी सबसे आसान भाषा “हिंदी” में पढ़ना चाहते हैं तो यहां, क्लिक करें