In pictures: Goddess Durga is loved, not feared by Bengalis

INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS TIMES
By Samhati Bhattacharjya

An electrician hangs decorative lights on an idol of the Hindu goddess Durga at a pandal, or a temporary platform, for the upcoming festival of Durga Puja in Kolkata, India, September 18, 2017. Reuters

KOLKATA, India---The much-awaited Navaratri celebrations have already kick-started across the globe on September 19, but for the Bengalis it's the time to celebrate Durga Puja. The festival marks the home coming of Goddess Durga. Talking about Durga Puja, one can easily say that for the Bengalis it's not just an auspicious festival, but an emotion. This year, Durga Puja will start from September 25 to September 30. The important days of the festival are Maha Panchami, Maha Sasthi, Maha Saptami, Maha Ashtami and Maha Navami. The annual Durga Puja festival that coincides with Vijayadashami (Dussehra) will be celebrated on September 30, this year. [more]