Kumari Puja, an integral part of Sharodiya Durga Puja, was celebrated for the third time in Bogura. It was held at the Sree Krishna Ashram in Gandagram village under Shahjahanpur upazila at 10:00am on Friday during the Mahashtami.
Eight-year-old Nibhrit Mandir Saha was chosen as the Kumari mother for this year's Kumari Puja, symbolizing the purity of the maternal spirit. Since the Kumari was 8 years old, she was worshipped as Uma. The puja rituals were conducted by the ashram's priest, Basudev Banerjee. Nibhrit Mandir Saha is a second-grade student at Bogura Cantonment Public School and College and the daughter of Dr. Milton Kumar Saha. He said that being able to worship his daughter as a mother through the Kumari Puja is truly a blessing, as it allows them to show respect to the entire female community. According to Hindu scriptures, the tradition of Kumari Puja originated from the slaying of Kolasur. At one time, Kolasur took control of both heaven and earth, causing the other distressed gods to seek refuge with Mahakali. In response to their plea, the goddess appeared in the form of a Kumari and defeated Kolasur. Since then, the practice of Kumari Puja began on earth.
Arup Ratan, who came to see the puja, expressed his hope for the triumph of feminine power, saying, may women receive the respect they deserve, that is my prayer today. He is happy to witness the Kumari Puja in Bogura.
Another visitor Banashree Saha said that Kumari Puja has been held at this ashram for the past three years. She said the Kumari symbolizes the purity of the universal mother. Swami Vivekananda was the first to begin the Kumari Puja. The purpose behind starting this ritual was to spread the awareness that Mother Durga resides within every human being. The priest addressed the assembled worshippers, saying that Kumari is the symbol of primordial energy, Mahamaya. Another name of Durga is Kumari. Essentially, Kumari Puja is performed to properly elevate women to their due respect.
Sources from district Puja Udjapon Parishad said Durga Puja is being held in 630 pandals across 12 upazilas in Bogura district. Extensive preparations have been made by both the administration and temple committees to ensure a peaceful and orderly Durga festival. The celebrations will conclude with Bijoya Dashami next Sunday.
