West Bengal is one of the most populated states in the Indian subcontinent. The city of Kolkta is almost bursting at the seams, yet this gentle city house millions of people from all castes, faith and creed. Diwali is a major festival in this state as it coincides with the Kali Puja celebrated along the same line. Bengalis are also reputed to be the best sweet makers in the country, so one thing you are sure to find here are the best possible sweetmeats.
Diwali Traditions In West Bengal
In West Bengal, the Diwali traditions undergo some change as compared to what is followed in the rest of the country. Lakshmi Pooja is celebrated five days after Dussehra on the full moon day (Purnima). The following day, on the new moon day (Amavasya), which incidentally coincides with Diwali, Goddess Kali is worshipped. Kali is revered by Bengalis and is their chief Goddess. Needless to say Kali Puja is one of the most important days on their calendar.
Kali is the more aggressive form or the destructive incarnation of Goddess Durga, and she has a terrifying look. She is known to destroy all evil and is a fierce fighter for the cause of justice. On Kali Puja, lamps are lit in her honor and she in turn promises a renewal of life and justice for all mankind on earth. In West Bengal, it is not Lakshmi Pooja but Kali Puja which makes the festival unique. Kali is generally a goddess to be feared rather than venerated, and therefore people leave no stone unturned in carrying out a special Pooja for her.
Diwali Celebrations In West Bengal
Like everywhere else in the country, Diwali is a time for great feasting and rejoicing and it is no different here in West Bengal. Bengalis have a reputation for decorating their houses and no one can argue with it when Diwali nears. They light up their houses with the most ornate of diyas using hundreds of them at a time. Bengalis are also immensely fond of Diwali Rangolis. Two or even four plantain leaves decorate the entry to the house or property, with a row of diyas at the doorstep. The entire family gathers around for Lakshmi Puja in the evening.
The Diwali festival goes on for three days but on Amavasya, the final day for celebrations and the day to worship Goddess Kali, the lights and gaiety are considerably reduced. The first two festival days are important, with feasting, drinking, gambling, family gatherings, lights and fire crackers occupying time from dusk to dawn. In West Bengal, the pious festive air and not the material goods, mainly marks the occasion. No new clothes, no new utensils, no new gold. In fact nothing new at all on Diwali day, as all the shops are shut tight except those selling sweets and firecrackers. Gifts are limited to sweets and dry fruits.
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