Siliguri, 10th January: Preparations are in full swing for the 44th Bonodurga Puja, set to take place on January 13, coinciding with ‘Poush Purnima.’ The event will be held late at night in Baikunthapur’s deep forest near Farabari in Rajganj, a site of historical and cultural significance.
Known as Delhivita, Chander Khal, the location is intertwined with the memories of Devi Chaudhurani and Bhavani Pathak, as mentioned in Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s novel Devi Chaudhurani. Traditionally worshipped as ‘Thunthunia Maa,’ the puja evolved over time and is now celebrated as Bonodurga Puja in a permanent temple in the forest, following special rituals.
The puja draws devotees from Siliguri, Jalpaiguri, and neighboring districts. The administration has announced increased vigilance for the two-day event to ensure smooth conduct.
Raju Saha, Secretary of the Bonodurga Puja Committee, emphasized the importance of this year’s celebrations, marking the 44th year of Bonodurga Puja. He explained that the puja is traditionally held on the full moon night of ‘Poush’ and noted that while COVID-19 restrictions had temporarily shifted the rituals to daytime, the night celebrations resumed last year.
Saha assured that the puja would adhere to all administrative guidelines and invited the general public to participate in the festivities.