Kali Puja in Kolkata is one of the most enjoyable festivals. It is the time of fireworks. Goddess Kali is believed to roam the crematoriums during this festival. She symbolizes power over evil forces and feminine energy.
Description of the Idol of Goddess Kali
The idol that is worshiped in Kali Puja comprises the nude idol of Goddess Kali, trampling on the chest of her husband, Shiva. She is accompanied by a jackal. She wears a garland of severed human heads and also holds one head in her lower left hand. She has four hands. In her upper right hand she holds a sharp 'Kharga' and with one hand she blesses the devotees. She also holds a hibiscus flower. Her tongue is shown jutting out from her blood smeared mouth. In certain cases, the idol is draped in a red Sari and adorned with conventional Bengali ornaments.
Fireworks During Kali Puja
Fireworks are the main attraction of Kali Puja in Calcutta. This puja coincides with Diwali, observed by
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the non-Bengali north Indian community. Some times Kali Puja is also called 'Dipaboli'. Previously fire crackers, such as chocolate bombs and kali patakhas, were allowed. In the recent past the marketing of such fire crackers has been banned due to sound pollution. However, the non-polluting crackers are allowed. These include 'fuljhuri' and 'chorki'. The skyrockets particularly make for spectacular shows.
Description of Kali Puja and Enjoyment at Pandals
The time of the puja is usually scheduled at midnight. Red Hibiscus flowers are a must for the worship of Goddess Kali. In earlier times, goats were sacrificed at the alter of the puja. Due to strict imposition of the laws, the practice has been done away with. Nowadays, goats are substituted with vegetable offerings. On certain occasions, the devotees feast on mutton after the the puja gets over. This puja permits the sound of loud drumming. It has become a trend to play pop music before and after the rituals. Especially, men of north Calcutta love reveling in music and dancing at the pandals. This has almost become an integral part of the puja enjoyment.
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