The residents of Vijaya Heritage Phase I-V, Kadma, came together with zeal and devotion to celebrate Durga Puja 2024, transforming the five-day festival into a vibrant and memorable occasion. The celebration, which began on Shasti (the sixth day) and culminated on Dashami (the tenth day), was marked by a blend of tradition, community bonding, and cultural richness.
The festivities kicked off with the Inauguration Ceremony, setting the tone for the grand occasion. Daily rituals were performed with devotion, with residents participating in the Evening Aarti every day. The offering of lighted wicks to Goddess Durga, accompanied by devotional songs and chants, filled the air with spiritual energy and reverence.
One of the highlights of the celebration was the Dhunuchi Dance, a traditional ritual dance performed with dhunuchis (incense burners) filled with smoking coconut husks. Both men and women from the community took part, showcasing their devotion and adding a dynamic element to the religious proceedings. Their graceful movements and synchronized steps brought out the festive spirit and kept the tradition alive.
The evenings were reserved for Cultural Programmes, where residents displayed their talents through music, dance, and drama performances. These events served as a platform for community members of all ages to showcase their artistic abilities, strengthening bonds within the neighborhood. From classical dances to modern performances, the variety of acts reflected the diversity and creativity of the residents.
A Prize Distribution Ceremony was organized to recognize and reward participants of various competitions held throughout the festival. Competitions included rangoli making, painting, and recitation, which encouraged active involvement from children and adults alike. The recognition of talent and participation fostered a sense of pride and camaraderie among the residents.
On Dashami, the festival culminated with the traditional Sindur Daan ceremony, a significant ritual where married women applied sindoor (vermilion) to the forehead and feet of the Goddess as well as to one another. This ritual symbolizes marital bliss, longevity, and the well-being of families. The sight of women in red-bordered sarees joyfully applying sindoor to each other added a touch of emotion to the final day of the celebrations.
