The Hindu community in Cox’s Bazar is celebrating Shree Shyama Puja and Deepabali, one of its major religious festivals, with elaborate arrangements.
The Cox’s Bazar Central Mahashmashan and Shiva-Kali Temple have been decorated with lights and lamps for the occasion. As evening fell on Sunday, the premises turned festive with illuminated surroundings and the presence of devotees.
Kali Puja began Sunday evening at the Cox’s Bazar Central Mahashmashan and Shiva-Kali Temple. Devotees gathered at the temple to offer prayers seeking the destruction of evil forces, world peace and the well-being of all.
Sujan Sharma, president of the Cox’s Bazar Central Mahashmashan Kali Puja and Deepabali Celebration Committee, said Shyama Puja was not merely a religious ritual but also a symbol of good’s triumph over evil.
“Goddess Kali represents strength, courage and justice. Through her worship, people are reminded to overcome darkness, arrogance, hatred and negativity in their minds and follow the path of truth and light,” he said.
He said the festival was being organised with religious solemnity and festive spirit, as in previous years.
According to Hindu beliefs, Goddess Kali emerged from Goddess Durga’s anger to destroy demons such as Mahishasura and Raktabija when the gods were driven from heaven and unrighteousness spread across the world. According to belief, she defeated the forces of evil and restored peace and justice.
Unlike many Hindu religious observances held during the daytime, Shyama Puja is performed at night on the new moon night of the month of Kartik. Deepabali celebrations begin in the evening with the lighting of lamps.
Devotees believe Goddess Shyama, or Kali, arrives with a message of overcoming evil, protecting the righteous, and establishing well-being in the world.
As part of the celebrations, many devotees light lamps and float them on water while praying for the peace and salvation of deceased relatives. The programme also includes worship, offerings, distribution of sacred food, evening rituals, religious music and cultural programmes.
The temple and surrounding areas have been decorated with colourful lights for the festival.
The central message of Deepabali is the journey from darkness to light. Through the symbolic lighting of lamps, devotees express hope for peace, harmony and wellbeing in their lives, society and the wider world.
Cox’s Bazar Life Report
Photo: Abdu Rashid Manik
