The Probasee Bengali Association of New Zealand celebrated Sarbojanin Durgotsav as well as their 25 years of existence, at the Shri Ram Mandir in Henderson last weekend. An estimated number of 600 people attended the Ashtami, Navami, and Dashami celebrations of the Puja held over three days from October 7-9.
According to Hindu mythology, this festival depicts the victory of good over evil through the worship of the Goddess Durga, the epitome of divine power, strength, and prosperity. It is also the occasion when the effigy of Ravan is set on fire, reinstating lord Ram’s win over the evil demon.
Most Bengali women are dressed in their traditional best—the quintessential white cotton saree with broad red border—to join in the festivities. Head to the pandals to offer flowers to the Durga idol and perform the aarti. On the 10th and final day of the festivities, the women play ‘sindoor khela’ – they apply vermicelli on each other as a part of the Puja ritual.
The Durgotsav celebrations at the temple that commenced with the traditional puja, was followed by a brief cultural program prepared by the members of the association.