Bhandani Puja
Oct, the day after Dashami (Ekadashi), lunar calendar
Bhandani Puja is a century-old observance among the Rajbanshi community of North Bengal. It falls on Ekadashi, the day after Dashami, when the rest of Bengal has just said goodbye to Durga. One account told locally says that as the goddess left for Kailash after Dashami she was sad, and at the foot of the Himalaya the people of these plains worshipped her for one more day, after which she went home happy and blessed them. This is a story of faith, told in different ways.
Bhandani is shown with her children, like Durga, but her mount is a tiger rather than a lion. Village fairs grow up around the puja grounds with stalls, rides and food. In Jalpaiguri district the largest gathering is at Barnish in the Maynaguri block; Bhandani is also worshipped at Malbazar, Mekhliganj, Mathabhanga, Nagrakata, Khayerkata, Alipurduar, Ranirhat and other places.
For visitors staying at Lataguri over the Puja holidays, Barnish is a short drive away. Go in the afternoon, dress simply, and treat it as a local religious gathering rather than a show. Ask before photographing worshippers and the image, and be patient with crowds and traffic.
How to do it well
- If you are in Lataguri during the Puja week, plan the day after Dashami for a visit to Barnish near Maynaguri.
- Carry small notes for fair stalls and offerings, and keep valuables secure in crowds.
- Ask your lodge host which local Bhandani pujas are worth visiting that year; there are many small ones.
Questions people ask
Good to know
What is Bhandani Puja
Bhandani Puja is a Rajbanshi festival of North Bengal held on Ekadashi, the day after Durga Puja ends. Devotees worship Devi Bhandani, a form of Durga whose mount is a tiger, along with her children. It is popular across the Dooars and Cooch Behar region.
Where is Bhandani Puja celebrated
In Jalpaiguri district the biggest gathering is at Barnish in the Maynaguri block, near Lataguri. It is also held at Malbazar, Mekhliganj, Mathabhanga, Nagrakata, Khayerkata, Alipurduar, Ranirhat and in many villages across the Dooars.
How is Bhandani different from Durga
Bhandani is regarded as a form of Durga worshipped by the Rajbanshi community the day after Dashami. Like Durga she is shown with her children, but she rides a tiger instead of a lion. Local accounts explain the extra day of worship in different ways.
Can tourists attend Bhandani Puja
Yes. The pujas and fairs are open public gatherings. Dress modestly, follow local customs at the shrine, ask before taking photographs, and be patient with crowds. Go in the afternoon or early evening, and return to your lodge before late night.