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The festive season has officially begun!
Recently, I had the opportunity to attend the Khuti Puja at the Mela Ground, Chittaranjan Park, New Delhi, and it was a wonderful experience to witness the first ceremonial step towards one of the most awaited festivals in the Bengali calendar—Durga Puja.
For those unfamiliar with the tradition, Khuti Puja (or Khunti Pujo) is an auspicious ritual that marks the formal beginning of Durga Puja preparations. The word Khuti means a pillar or pole, and the ceremony involves worshipping the first bamboo or wooden post that will support the grand pandal where Goddess Durga’s idol will later be installed.
Much like a Bhumi Puja before constructing a building, Khuti Puja seeks divine blessings from Goddess Durga and Lord Ganesha for the successful construction of the pandal and the smooth conduct of the festivities. It is a beautiful blend of faith, tradition, and community spirit.
The ritual traces its roots to the centuries-old practice of Kathamo Puja, where the wooden framework of the idol was worshipped before the sculpting process began. Over time, this tradition evolved into the Khuti Puja celebrated today by community Durga Puja committees across India and around the world.
At Chittaranjan Park, often referred to as the cultural heart of Bengalis in Delhi, the atmosphere was filled with excitement and anticipation. The rhythmic beats of the dhaak, the fragrance of incense, the chanting of prayers, and the gathering of devotees created a sense of joy that only the approaching Durga Puja season can bring.
As the sacred pole was worshipped and the countdown to Durga Puja officially commenced, one could feel the community coming together once again to celebrate a tradition that has been passed down through generations.
With Khuti Puja completed, the preparations begin, the pandals will rise, the idols will take shape, and before we know it, the sounds of “Aaschhe Bochor Aabar Hobe” will echo through the air.
My review of last year’s Pujo can be read here
Have you attended a Khuti Puja in your city? I’d love to hear about your experiences and traditions.
