Diwali is celebrated in various ways across India. It marks different occasions, such as when Rama returned to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana in Lanka. In Odisha, people celebrate Kaunriya Kathi by burning jute sticks to invite their ancestors. In Punjab, Bandi Chhor Divas commemorates the day Guru Hargobind rescued 52 kings from Gwalior Fort. In West Bengal, known for its deep-rooted tradition of worshipping the divine feminine, people celebrate Kali Puja to honour the dark goddess. Here’s a closer look at this unique festival.
As celebrated in Hindu mythology, Kali embodies Shakti—the essence of divine power, force, and energy. In popular lore, Goddess Durga transforms into the formidable Kali to conquer the demon king Mahishasura during an epic battle, ultimately defeating the fearsome demon Raktabeej. She is strikingly depicted with a garland of severed heads and wields powerful weapons such as the Trishul (trident), Vajra (lightning), and Khara (sword). Worship of Kali in various forms can be traced back to the 3rd century BCE, illustrating her evolution from a wild and fierce deity into a more nurturing Goddess while still embracing her diverse personas. Typically, Kali is portrayed as naked, with blue or black skin symbolising the vastness of the sky and ocean, her tongue prominently hanging out.
Kali Puja is quite different from Durga Puja, a grand festival celebrated over a week with hundreds and thousands of goddess idols displayed in elaborate pandals. While Durga Puja is a public festival, Kali Puja is more personal. It is celebrated over three to four days around the new moon night, known as Amavasya, in the month of Kartik.
During this festival, devotees offer prayers and seek Ma Kali's blessings, symbolising empowerment and protection. The goddess is adorned with a garland of red hibiscus, a flower representing her fierce nature. Devotees also offer various food items, including rice, meats, alcohol, lentils, fruits, and sweets. In the Tantric tradition, animals are ritually sacrificed on Kali Puja day and offered to the goddess.
The day before Kali Puja, Bengalis observe the Bhoot Chaturdashi ritual, which involves lighting fourteen diyas (earthen lamps) at home to ward off evil influences. The festival includes a variety of traditions, such as decorating community pandals with Kali idols and flower arrangements. Devotees meditate throughout the night to deepen their connection with the divine.
You may know the stirring phrase "Jai Kali, Kalkattawali," meaning "All hail Kali of Calcutta." It's fascinating to note that many historians trace the city's name back to its revered goddess; Calcutta, or Kolkata, is a form of Kalikshetra, which translates to "the land of Kali." Her powerful presence permeates the city, where vibrant murals of Kali captivate passersby, countless shops honour her name, and temples dedicated to her grace abound. She resonates deeply within the hearts of countless residents, showcasing a profound devotion that truly transcends all barriers.
In most Bengali homes, you will find an idol or a framed photograph of Kali in one of her many forms. Kali symbolises Shakti, the feminine divine energy. The numerous temples dedicated to her throughout Kolkata highlight her popularity among Bengalis. If you are in Kolkata, make it a point to visit the many Kali Baris or Kali temples to gain a deeper understanding of this fascinating goddess.
One of the most well-known temples is the Dakshineswar Kali Temple. Located on the banks of the Hooghly River, the temple was founded by philanthropist Rani Rashmoni. The temple's presiding deity is Bhavatarini, an aspect of the goddess Kali. You can also visit the famous Kalighat Kali temple, once situated on the banks of the Hooghly in Kolkata. The river has receded over the years. The Kalighat temple holds great importance as it is one of the 51 shakti peeths, which are believed to be the locations where the body parts of Sati fell during Shiva's Rudra Tandava.