Dhaka:Bijoya Dashami, marking the end of the six-day Sharadiya Durga Puja, is being celebrated nationwide today with religious fervor, traditional rituals, and communal harmony. The festivities are concluding with the observance of Sindur Khela, followed by the immersion of Durga idols in local water bodies.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the celebrations include devotees exchanging Bijoya greetings as Goddess Durga departs from her earthly abode. Temples across the country, such as Dhakeshwari National Temple and Ramna Kali Mandir, are witnessing large gatherings. Married Hindu women, in traditional attire, are participating in Sindur Khela, a ritual involving the offering of vermilion and sweets to Goddess Durga, followed by smearing vermilion on each other.
Sindur Khela, a tradition in Bangladesh and eastern India, has increasingly included male devotees, enhancing the festive atmosphere. The day began with Dashami puja, followed by Darpan Bisarjan, a symbolic immersion ritual. Colorful processions are leading the way to water bodies for the idol immersion.
In Dhaka, major mandaps have attracted thousands of devotees. The immersion ceremonies are expected to draw large crowds, with security measures in place to ensure smooth traffic. Celebrations are also happening in other major cities and towns.
After the immersions, younger family members seek blessings from elders, and traditional sweets are shared among family and friends, marking the Bijoya festivities.