Kali Puja

Kali Puja is a day that celebrates the fierce goddess Kali, believed to protect people and regions throughout northeastern India. Step into the world of Hindu mythology and discover the unique traditions of this powerful festival.

History

Kali Puja has been observed since the 17th century. It takes place on the new moon night (Dipannita Amavasya) of the Hindu month of Kartik. While this date is usually dedicated to Lakshmi, the goddess of happiness, in eastern India Kali has become the focus of devotion, especially in West Bengal and neighboring states.

Interesting Facts

• In Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, and Guwahati, the festival is often held at cremation grounds.
• Kali was deeply revered by the 19th-century saint Ramakrishna, who served as a priest at the famous Dakshineswar temple in Kolkata.
• In traditional images, Kali is shown with one foot on Shiva’s chest. According to legend, after defeating the Rakshasa demons, Kali was overcome with rage and could not stop her destruction. Shiva lay down in her path to halt her, causing her tongue to stick out in shock—giving her that distinctive appearance.
• Hindus view death as a transition to the next life, as important as birth or marriage.

How to Take Part

During Kali Puja in the states of West Bengal, Assam, Bihar, and Odisha, temporary pavilions called pandals are set up for worship. Devotees honor clay images of the goddess Kali, and many also celebrate at home. Kali, often depicted with a necklace of skulls, is especially popular in the Himalayan foothills. Offerings of bright red hibiscus flowers, fruits, rice, lentils, sweets, meat, and fish are made to the goddess, following Tantric traditions. Some of these Tantric rituals remain private and are not open to the uninitiated. Throughout the night, mantras are chanted, and many devotees meditate until dawn.

When is Kali Puja in 2025?