Updated on: SEP 21, 2025
Durga Puja 2025 will begin on September 28 with Maha Shashthi and conclude on October 2 with Vijayadashami, following Mahalaya on September 21. More than just a festival, Durga Puja is the soul of Bengal and one of India’s most anticipated celebrations. From pandal hopping in Kolkata to cultural events across India and abroad, the five-day puja brings together rituals, devotion, and vibrant traditions. This guide covers the complete festival calendar, tithi timings, and state-wise holiday schedule for 2025.
The Significance of Mahalaya: The Divine Invitation
Mahalaya marks the beginning of Devi Paksha, inviting Maa Durga to Earth. On this day, Bengalis wake before dawn to listen to Mahishasura Mardini. Families also perform Tarpan rituals to honor ancestors. In 2025, Mahalaya will be observed on September 21.
🕐 Festival Countdown: Durga Puja 2025
🌺 Maha Shashthi
🪷 Maha Saptami
🔱 Maha Ashtami
🏹 Maha Navami
🙏 Vijayadashami
Durga Puja 2025: Key Dates and Schedule
| Date | Day | Festival Event |
|---|---|---|
| September 21, 2025 | Sunday | Mahalaya |
| September 28, 2025 | Sunday | Maha Shashthi |
| September 29, 2025 | Monday | Maha Saptami |
| September 30, 2025 | Tuesday | Maha Ashtami |
| October 1, 2025 | Wednesday | Maha Navami |
| October 2, 2025 | Thursday | Vijaya Dashami |
Durga Puja 2025 Holiday Calendar (State-wise)
Durga Puja is a public holiday in West Bengal, Assam, Tripura, Odisha, and parts of Jharkhand and Bihar. Other states also declare regional holidays during the festival. Below is the expected government holiday schedule for 2025:
| Date | Day | Festival Event | States with Public Holiday |
|---|---|---|---|
| September 28, 2025 | Sunday | Maha Shashthi | West Bengal (Partial Holiday) |
| September 29, 2025 | Monday | Maha Saptami | West Bengal, Assam, Tripura, Odisha |
| September 30, 2025 | Tuesday | Maha Ashtami | West Bengal, Assam, Tripura, Odisha, Jharkhand |
| October 1, 2025 | Wednesday | Maha Navami | West Bengal, Assam, Tripura, Odisha, Bihar (selected districts) |
| October 2, 2025 | Thursday | Vijayadashami | Pan India (Gandhi Jayanti + Vijayadashami in several states) |
Note: Holiday declarations may vary depending on state government notifications. Employees should check their official gazetted holiday list for confirmation.
Rituals and Significance of Each Day
Maha Shashthi
The unveiling of the Durga idol (Bodhan) and Kalparambha rituals are performed. This day marks the formal welcome of Goddess Durga and her children.
Maha Saptami
The 'Nabapatrika' or 'Kola Bou' ritual marks the symbolic bathing of nine plants representing the goddess. The nine plants are tied together and symbolically represent the nine forms of the Goddess.
Maha Ashtami
This day witnesses the powerful Sandhi Puja, performed at the juncture of Ashtami and Navami, symbolizing the slaying of Mahishasura. Kumari Puja (worshipping young girls as manifestations of the Goddess) is also performed on this day.
Maha Navami
The final puja and bhog offerings are done. This day includes the ritual of Balidaan (symbolic sacrifice) and the offering of 108 lotus flowers.
Vijaya Dashami
Idols are immersed in water (Visarjan) as devotees bid farewell to Maa Durga, hoping she returns next year. Married women participate in Sindoor Khela, applying vermilion to each other and the Goddess.
How Maa Durga Will Arrive in 2025
According to the Panchang, Maa Durga will arrive on an elephant in 2025. This is considered highly auspicious, symbolizing prosperity, wisdom, and strength. The mode of arrival is significant in Hindu mythology as it predicts the year's fortunes.
Cultural Celebrations and Traditions
Durga Puja transcends religious boundaries to become a grand cultural celebration. The religious event transforms into a lively celebration which honors Indian art, music, dance, food, and literature.
The traditional dance Dhunuchi Naach performed with incense burners combines with the Dhaak drum sounds to create a vibrant and soulful celebration. Elaborate pandals (temporary structures) house artistic idols of the Goddess, with themes ranging from traditional to contemporary social issues.
Cultural programs featuring music, dance, and theater performances are organized throughout the festival. Food plays a significant role with special delicacies prepared and shared among communities.
🎶 Durga Puja 2025 Special Music Playlist
Celebrate the spirit of Durga Puja with devotional and festive songs. Start with the full playlist or enjoy the featured tracks below.
📀 Complete Playlist
▶ Watch the Durga Puja 2025 Playlist on YouTube
✨ Featured Songs
Regional Celebrations in India and Abroad
Kolkata (West Bengal)
Kolkata is famous for its iconic pandals like Kumartuli Park, Bagbazar, and College Square where art and devotion meet magnificently. The city transforms into a massive art gallery and cultural hub during the festival.
Odisha
Odisha has a unique tradition of making idols with silver and gold. The cities like Cuttack and Bhubaneswar have grand celebrations with distinct rituals and traditions.
Assam & Tripura
The puja is observed with traditional customs, bhajans, and lighting of earthen lamps. These states have their unique cultural elements blended with the traditional Bengal-style celebrations.
Outside India
In cities like London, New York, and Toronto, Indian communities host cultural programs, set up themed pandals, and organize Anjali and Prasad distribution, maintaining the festive spirit overseas. These celebrations help preserve cultural heritage among the diaspora.
What to Expect in Durga Puja 2025
In 2025, major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Mumbai are expected to host vibrant processions as idols of Maa Durga are immersed in rivers and lakes. Pandals will likely draw record crowds with themes ranging from Bengal heritage to climate awareness. The mood will be one of devotion, joy, and bittersweet farewell as families prepare for Sindoor Khela and immersion ceremonies.
FAQs: Durga Puja 2025
When is Mahalaya in 2025?
Mahalaya will be observed on September 21, 2025.
When does Durga Puja start in 2025?
The rituals begin with Mahalaya on September 21, followed by Maha Shashthi on September 28, 2025.
How is Maa Durga arriving in 2025?
In 2025, Maa Durga is believed to arrive on an elephant, an auspicious sign of prosperity and harmony.
Is Mahalaya an auspicious day?
Yes, Mahalaya is one of the most sacred days, marking the invitation to Goddess Durga and also a day for honoring ancestors.
Who started Durga Puja in Bengal?
While the worship is ancient, Raja Nabakrishna Deb of Shobhabazar Rajbari organized one of the first grand community pujas in Kolkata in 1757.
Is Durga Puja celebrated outside Bengal?
Yes, major celebrations take place in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and globally in countries like the UK, US, and Canada where Bengali communities thrive.
Conclusion: Embrace the Spirit of Durga Puja
Durga Puja 2025 is a celebration of devotion, art, and togetherness. From Mahalaya's call of the Goddess to Vijayadashami's farewell immersions, every ritual tells a story of faith and resilience. Whether you are pandal-hopping in Kolkata or celebrating from abroad, the blessings of Maa Durga bring strength and joy to all.
A Sacred Quote to Reflect On:
"Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Shakti Rupena Samsthita, Namastasyai Namastasyai Namastasyai Namo Namah."
Salutations to the Goddess who resides in all beings in the form of power.
Related Articles
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes. Dates may vary based on regional calendar interpretations. Please check local announcements for final puja timings.
