Shyama Puja, also known as Kali Puja or Mahanisha, is the popular puja observed on Diwali in Bengal, Orissa, and Assam. In 2025, Shyama Puja date is October 21.
On the same day other states of India celebrate Lakshmi Puja.
On this festive day, devotees worship Goddess Shyama (Kali Mata) in ritualistic manner. Tantric puja vidhana is most popular to worship Goddess Kali on this day. Red Hibiscus flowers are offered to the deity. Devotees mediate and observe fasting during this auspicious day to get blessings from the Goddess.
Kali Puja Pandals are erected in many cities including Kolkata, Guwahati, Bhubaneswar, etc. to worship the Goddess in grand fashion. Pandals also place the idols of Lord Shiva and Dasa Mahavidya (ten Tantrik Goddesses headed by Kali Maa), and images of Ramakrishna. Kalibari temples across India host jubilant celebrations. In New Delhi, Mumbai, Lucknow, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Pune, and in many other cities Bengali communities organize Kali puja pandals.
In Kolkata Kalighat temple, Kali is worshipped as Goddess Lakshmi on Kali Puja day. Another famous Kali temple in Kolkata is Dakshineswar Kali Temple.
Kali Puja, also known as Shyama Puja or Mahanisha Puja, is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to the goddess Kali. It is celebrated primarily on the new moon day (Amavasya) of the Hindu month of Kartik, which coincides with the Diwali festivities.
Historical Background
The origins of Kali Puja can be traced back to the 16th century, attributed to sage Krishnananda Agamavagisha. The festival gained prominence in the 18th century under Raja Krishnachandra of Nabadwip, who popularized it among the Bengali populace. By the 19th century, it became widely celebrated, particularly in Bengal, alongside the rise of notable devotees like Sri Ramakrishna
Observances and Rituals
Kali Puja is characterized by its vibrant celebrations, which include:
- Worship Practices: Devotees create clay idols of Kali and worship her in homes and public pandals (temporary shrines). The rituals typically involve offerings of red hibiscus flowers, sweets, rice, and lentils. In some traditions, animal sacrifices are also performed
- Timing: The main rituals are conducted at night, often beginning around midnight and continuing until dawn. This period is considered highly auspicious for invoking the goddess’s blessings
- Cultural Significance: The festival is especially prominent in West Bengal but is also celebrated in regions like Odisha, Assam, Jharkhand, and even Bangladesh. It serves as a time for community gatherings and cultural performances
Celebrations
During Kali Puja, various activities take place:
- Fireworks and Festivities: The festival features fireworks, theatrical performances, and magic shows. Many people visit pandals throughout the night to witness elaborate decorations and artistic representations of Kali
- Regional Variations: Different regions have unique customs associated with Kali Puja. For example, in Kolkata’s Kalighat Temple, Kali is worshipped with specific rituals that attract thousands of devotees
Significance
Kali Puja symbolizes the triumph over negativity and evil forces. Worshipping Goddess Kali is believed to bring prosperity, remove obstacles in life, and provide spiritual enlightenment. The festival embodies themes of strength and resilience against adversity.
image of shyamakali in kolkata famous puja pandal