The grand Hindu festival of Sharadiya Durgotsob concluded peacefully and reverently in the port city of Chattogram with the immersion of idols. On the auspicious day of Bijoya Dashami, thousands of devotees participated in special morning prayers, 'darpan bisarjan', and the traditional 'sindur khela' across various pandals. Following these rituals, the emotional process of bidding farewell to Goddess Durga began amidst the rhythmic beats of dhak, uludhvani, and a poignant atmosphere of melancholy.
As part of security and administrative arrangements, idols were immersed at four designated locations in the city, notably Patenga Sea Beach, Abhoy Mitra Ghat, Kalurghat, and Chashma Khal area. Law enforcement personnel, volunteers, and diving teams from the fire service remained stationed at these points since morning. Thanks to the enthusiastic yet orderly participation of devotees, the immersion process concluded smoothly without any untoward incidents.
From the afternoon, trucks carrying idols and colorful processions began arriving at the designated ghats from various puja pandals. The surroundings resonated with chants of 'Aschhe bochor abar hobe' (it will happen again next year) as thousands of devotees gathered to witness the final rites. Many worshippers became visibly emotional, offering tearful prayers at the feet of the Goddess for world peace, prosperity, and the welfare of the nation.
Leaders of various puja celebration committees expressed their satisfaction over the peaceful and festive celebration of Durgotsob. They noted that the unwavering cooperation from the administration and the sincere efforts of local communities made the smooth execution of the festival possible. The committee members extended their gratitude to law enforcement agencies, the city corporation, and all concerned stakeholders.
Although the formal conclusion of Durgotsob comes with the immersion of idols, the spirit of the festival lingers in the hearts of the devotees. Such celebrations go beyond religious rituals, strengthening bonds of harmony, solidarity, and brotherhood among people of all communities. Worshippers now look forward in anticipation of the Goddess's return to earth next year.
