Durga Puja, an annual Hindu festival, celebrates the divine force “Shakti” embodied in Goddess Durga. This year, Mahalaya falls on 2 October, marking the start of Devi Paksha. Durga arrives on 3 October by palanquin, considered inauspicious, and departs on 12 October by horse.

Shubho Mahalaya, the most significant religious festival for Bengali Sanatan (Hindu) practitioners, marks the auspicious beginning of Durga Puja today. This day indicates the start of Devi Paksha, which is a crucial element of the Puja celebrations.

Durga Puja celebrates Goddess Durga, highlighting her strength, courage, and compassion. These divine traits are present in every woman, empowering them to face challenges and embrace their inner goddess during the festival and beyond.

Shankhari Bazar, one of Dhaka’s oldest neighbourhoods, is renowned for its vibrant cultural heritage. During Durga Puja, the area transforms with colourful decorations and bustling markets. Despite modernization, it retains its charm, offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane.

The export price of hilsa has been set at $10 per kilogram, equivalent to Tk 1,180.

The recent decision by the Bangladeshi government to resume hilsa exports to India ahead of Durga Puja has reignited a conversation that transcends mere trade.

Shankhari Bazar in Dhaka transforms during Durga Puja with vibrant decorations, music, and rituals. This narrow street, famous for its conch shell bangles, becomes a lively hub of cultural celebration, culminating in the ethereal Sindur Khela on Bijoya Dashami

The government has approved conditional export of 3,000 tonnes of hilsa to India citing the upcoming Durga Puja.

Fall, in this part of the world, may not be marked by a profound stillness. Nevertheless, even in Bengal, the season brings about noticeable changes.

This Bijoya, as the last day of the puja season dawns, let's take a closer look at how our favourite stars are soaking up the joy and warmth of the festivities.

It's that time of the year when Dhaka comes alive with vibrant colours and the infectious energy of Durga Puja. As always, the festival takes on a vibrant and enchanting form with beautifully decorated puja mandaps gracing the cityscape. So, let us present you with a glimpse into Dhaka's 5 most splendid Durga Puja mandaps, where tradition, art, and devotion converge to create a dazzling spectacle.

The legend of unearthing the idol is traditionally ascribed to Ballal Sen, but it is doubtful whether this story talks of the renowned 12th-century king, Ballal Sen.

Shopping centres, fashion houses and other retail outlets in Dhaka found a reason to smile on the occasion of Durga Puja, the biggest annual festival for the Hindu community which begins today, with traders saying sales had exceeded expectations.

This October also marks a special milestone for Bappy - 11 years in the film industry. His cinematic journey began with the movie "Bhalobashar Rong", where he shared the screen with Mahiya Mahi. Since that debut, Bappy has graced the silver screen consistently. The actor is currently taking a well-deserved break during the Puja holidays, cherishing the free time.

Everyone talks about food during pujo. More often than not, khichuri, polao, ilish, chingri and mangsho tends to land leading roles in these discussions with luchi, and cholar dal playing solid supporting roles. And of course, beyond all this there are sweets. Artful, creative, delicate, yet honest to god mishti. Sandesh, kamolabhog, chandrapuli, narkel naru… the list can go on.

It all starts with Kathamo Puja or Khuti Puja, a customary ritual to celebrate the day when the idol artisan starts off the sculpting process. It formally initiates the festivities as well as the preparation for the 5-day carnival.

This Durga Puja, I collaborated with Joyadrita Ragavendran Chatterjee from across the border to share some of her family favourites. Joyadrita grew up enjoying the culture of both East Bengal and West Bengal as her maternal side is from Bangladesh and her paternal side is from India.

The season of Durga Puja is upon us. Within weeks, the Hindu community of Bangladesh will be celebrating their biggest religious festival. For me, white kans grass or kashful ushers the homecoming of Goddess Durga and her colourful entourage.

Ethnic wear ticks all the boxes when it comes to that and it should be your go-to for this festive season. If you think ethnic wear is not for you, this article will most definitely inspire you to change teams.

The government has allowed 79 traders to export a total of 3,950 tonnes of hilsa fish to India.