Raphael Warjri

By Malabika Bisharad

The Hindu devotees of Shillong observed Durga Puja with solemnity and enthusiasm since 20th October.  On the 24th October 2023 was Dasami, the last day of celebration of the Durga Puja, culminated with grand ceremonies at different Puja Mandaps including the traditional ceremony at Nartiang mandir, where indigenous people also observed with religious fervour.  Shillong was packed with thousands of devotees across the city as the Hindu faithful participated in the procession of Mother Durga’s departure for Kailash from all corners of different localities, along with the rest of India and elsewhere in the world.   According to the Hindu religion Mother Durga, every year comes to spend four days in her paternal house, and after giving blessings to all the faithfuls, she again returns to Mount Kailash where   Lord Shiva, husband of Mother Durga is waiting for his family members.  

The roads across the city, particularly Rynjah, Laitumkhrah, Laban, Rilbong, and Auckland, participated in the procession carrying the idols of Mother Durga and her children Ganesh, Kartik, Saraswati and Laxmi, as they converged at Polo grounds to immerse the idols at Wahumkhrah. The Dhaki's unique Drum beating enthralled the passersby and motivated the festive atmosphere all over the city. Local people from diverse communities and religions cherish this annual festival as Durga Puja enhances a festive Mood in the cosmopolitan city of Shillong.  A large number of tourists from different parts of India also come to enjoy the festival in Shillong which brings every community a spirit to celebrate together and spread the message of harmony, peace, and brotherhood.