By OUR STAFF REPORTER
Dehradun, 13 Oct: This year, Durgabari celebrated its 69th Durga Puja from 9 to 12 October in its premises. The festivities began with a lot of fanfare, devotees from all walks of life gathered to offer their prayers to the Divine Mother. The festivities began with Maha Shasti day with the inauguration by the Swamiji of Ramakrishna Ashram, who enthralled the audience with his divine talk. Then Puja continued on to Maha Shaptami, Maha Ashtami and Maha Navami celebration. This year, as Ashtami and Navami fell on the same day, the festivities were restricted to just three days instead of the usual four. Each day began with Puja of Ma Durga followed by Puspanjali by the devotees. Then, after the daily distribution of prasad, the ‘Bhog prasad’ or Bhandara would begin. Every day, about 1200 devotees enjoyed the bhog prasad which is a grand affair.
During the ‘Sandhya Arati’ every day, there was a footfall of 1500 devotees at the Puja mandap. The sound of the dhak, the blowing of the conch, the bells and Diya, all rendered a mesmerising atmosphere with the Puja mandap bursting to full capacity. After which, every evening there was a cultural programme by the in-house talent of Dehradun Durgabari.
Dehradun Durgabari, a socio-cultural organisation, is primarily focused on spreading of socio and cultural harmony, through a plethora of activities, since its inception in 1956.
During its glorious journey over the past 68 years, Durgabari has made momentous progress in terms of reach amongst the Doonites and also has contributed significantly to society through various philanthropic activities. This journey would not have been possible without the Divine Blessings and dedicated support of the members, sponsors, donors and well-wishers.
Durgabari is also actively involved in community services through the celebration of diverse festivals, cultural programmes and competitions, thus providing a platform for intermingling of cultures and dialects, in its true spirits.
