The largest religious festival of the Hindu community, Sharadiya Durga Puja, has come to its conclusion with grand celebrations. On Vijayadashami, after completing the final rituals, idols of Goddess Durga are being immersed in rivers and ponds across the capital and throughout the country.
From early Thursday morning (October 2), devotees gathered at temples and puja mandaps. They offered anjali at the feet of the Goddess, praying for peace, happiness, and prosperity. Later, in festive processions accompanied by drums, conch shells, and uludhwani, the idols were carried to the immersion sites.
According to Sanatan beliefs, the essence of Vijayadashami lies in overcoming demonic tendencies within—lust, anger, greed, and violence. By conquering these, people foster brotherhood and contribute to the establishment of peace in the world.
Navnita Barman, who came from Lakshibazar in Old Dhaka, shared, “These few days felt like a dream. With Goddess Durga among us, everything was filled with joy. But today, the sorrow of her departure weighs heavy on my heart. Now begins the wait for another year. This year, I prayed especially for peace in our country and the well-being of everyone.”
Biswajit Roy, vice-president of the Dhanmondi Puja Celebration Committee, said, “We are bidding farewell to the Goddess with heavy hearts. She came to bless us and to defeat evil forces. Our prayer is that evil never rises again and that the country continues to move forward in harmony.”
This year, idols from 254 mandaps across the capital are being immersed at 10 designated ghats on the Buriganga, Shitalakkhya, and Turag rivers. Among these, Binashmriti Snan, Wise Ghat, and Nawabbari Ghat will host the largest number of immersions. Other immersion sites include Lalkuthi, Mill Barrack, Postogola Crematorium, Bosila Bridge, Aminbazar, and the BIWTC Ferry Ghat at Dhuari in Ashulia.
To ensure smooth and secure celebrations, around 7,000 members of the army, police, RAB, and BGB have been deployed. Additionally, river patrols by the naval police and coast guard are in place to prevent accidents during the immersions.
