Cuttack, Oct 20: The sixth day of Navratri is joyously observed as Maha Shashti or Subha Shashti in India, primarily cherished in the eastern states such as Odisha, West Bengal, Assam, and Tripura.
Subha Shasthi marks the commencement of Durga Puja, a grand celebration in Eastern India.
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A significant historical connection to Maha Shashthi is rooted in Lord Ram's profound devotion to Goddess Durga. On this sixth day of Durga Puja, known as Maha Shashthi, the ritual of Devi Bodhon is performed, unveiling the countenance of Devi Durga. This event signifies Lord Ram's actions to rescue Devi Sita from Ravana.
Devotees hold a belief that Goddess Durga descends to the mortal realm on Maha Shashthi, concluding her sojourn in Kailash. She visits Earth to reunite with her father, accompanied by her children: Ganesha, Kartika, Laxmi, and Saraswati.
Maha Shashthi is traditionally a day for women to actively engage in preparing the Durga Ghat, creating an inviting ambiance for the goddess in her paternal abode.
In contemporary times, worshippers joyfully unveil the visage of Durga, concealed for several days.
This day witnesses the performance of the four fundamental rituals of the festival: Kalparamva (commencement of the Pujas), Badhan (consecration of the idol of Goddess Durga), Amantran (invitation to the goddess), and Adhibas (sanctification of the goddess's presence in the Puja area or pandals).
