Khulna:The six-day Sharadiya Durga Puja celebrations in Khulna concluded on Wednesday afternoon with the immersion of Goddess Durga idols in the Bhairab River, as well as other rivers across the district, amidst a festive atmosphere. The main ceremony took place at Jailkhana Ghat on the Bhairab River, where devotees gathered to bid farewell to the goddess following five days of worship.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the occasion was marked by the sound of traditional drums, ululation, and emotional farewells, with devotees experiencing a blend of joy and sadness. Various rituals, including the exchange of Bijoya greetings and sindur khela (vermillion play), were performed before the idols were immersed, signifying the conclusion of the annual Hindu festival.
Authorities implemented measures to manage the crowds and ensure security at the immersion sites. Biman Saha, general secretary of the Khulna District Puja Celebration Committee, expressed gratitude to everyone involved for the peaceful completion of Durga Puja across the district's nine upazilas. He extended thanks to the authorities, organizers, and stakeholders for ensuring a safe and comfortable festival.
A monitoring cell, led by convener Ratan Kumar Mitra and member-secretary Suman Das, was established by the committee to oversee the celebrations at 890 puja mandaps in nine upazilas and two municipalities in Khulna district. The six-day celebrations, held from October 16 to 21, were conducted in a festive spirit, According to council.
During the celebrations, Biman Saha visited over 200 puja mandaps and exchanged Sharadiya greetings with devotees. He emphasized the importance of communal harmony in Bangladesh and urged Sanatan communities to unite against all evil forces and conspiracies to protect religious harmony. He expressed hope that the immersion of Goddess Durga would symbolize the destruction of evil forces and the triumph of good, contributing to peace, security, equality, and brotherhood in society.
Devotees expressed hope for the return of the annual festival next year, further strengthening the bonds of communal harmony and goodwill.
Source Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha