Kali Puja 2023: Kolkata gears up for grand celebration on November 12

Kolkata, the cultural heart of India, is gearing up for the annual spectacle of Kali Puja, also known as Shyama Puja or Mahanisha Puja. Falling on November 12, 2023, this festival, observed in the eastern regions during the Kartik Month, honors Goddess Kali. While northern states mark this day as Diwali, focusing on Goddess Lakshmi, West Bengal, Orissa, and Assam engage in worshiping the fierce Goddess Kali. Introduced by Raja Krishnachandra in the 18th century, Kali Puja has become an integral part of Kolkata's cultural tapestry, evolving into a vibrant and fervent festival.

As the city comes alive during Kali Puja, devotees passionately honor the goddess, embodying power and destruction. The festival holds immense significance and has evolved into a grand spectacle over the years. The timing of Kali Puja in Kolkata for 2023 is from 11:39 PM on November 12 to 12:32 AM on November 13, with the Amavasya tithi beginning at 2:43 PM on November 12.

In preparation, artisans work for months to create idols of the goddess using materials like wood, clay, or plaster of Paris, adorned with intricate decorations. The festival is marked by elaborate rituals and the use of essential puja samagri, including idols of Lord Ganesh, Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Kali, earthen lamps, incense, tantrik symbols, rice, darba grass, and sandalwood powder.

In Kolkata, specific places are famous for their Kali Puja celebrations. The Kalighat Temple, where Kali is worshipped as Lakshmi on this day, attracts thousands of devotees. Additionally, the Kalighat Kali Temple and Dakshineswar Kali Temple offer exceptional Kali Puja experiences, drawing devoted visitors with captivating theme-based pandals. The festival signifies the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance, making it a unique cultural celebration separate from Diwali.