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RAJSHAHI, Sept 24, 2025 (BSS) - Preparations are in full swing to celebrate Durga Puja-the largest religious festival of the Hindu community-with due religious fervour and enthusiasm in Rajshahi division, with 3,449 mandaps set up across its eight districts, in addition to 103 mandaps in Rajshahi metropolis.

The festivities began on Sunday with Mahalaya, marking the symbolic descent of Goddess Durga to Earth. Devotees observed the day by waking early to listen to hymns from the Devi Mahatmya and the traditional Mahishasuramardini chant, which narrates the goddess's victory over the demon king Mahishasura. Rituals such as tarpan (offering water to ancestors) were also performed, seeking eternal peace for departed souls.

The main celebrations will commence on September 28 with Shashthi Puja, and conclude on October 2 with Bijoya Dashami, when idols of Goddess Durga will be immersed in rivers and water bodies.

With an increase in the number of puja mandaps this year, excitement runs high among the Hindu community. The Rajshahi Puja Udjapan Parishad, along with divisional and district administrations, has taken extensive measures to ensure smooth and secure celebrations.

Idol-making has reached its peak in areas such as Kumarpara, Alupatty, Sagarpara, and Sasthitala, where artisans are working tirelessly to bring the goddess to life with vibrant colours and intricate detailing. Some artisans are using the classic Ajanta-style clay method, in which the idols' jewellery and attire are sculpted and painted directly onto the figure.

Mandaps across the city and rural areas are being decorated with colourful lights, artistic pandals, and cultural stages. A wide range of cultural programmes-including music, dance, and drama-are also being arranged to add to the festive atmosphere.

To ensure safety, Rajshahi Metropolitan Police (RMP) and district police have launched multi-layered security plans. RMP Commissioner Muhammad Abu Sufian said law enforcement personnel will be deployed at all major mandaps and idol immersion spots. Surveillance cameras will be installed, and control rooms will remain active throughout the festival.

He urged puja organisers to immediately report any issues by calling 999 or the nearest police station, and also advised them to ensure functioning CCTV systems and the presence of trained volunteer teams at each mandap.

District Superintendent of Police Farzana Islam said Durga Puja is not just a religious festival but also a symbol of the country's communal harmony. She outlined 12 key directives, including volunteer deployment, CCTV installation, and continuous coordination with police control rooms for any security concerns.

This year, a total of 472 pujas will be held in different parts of Rajshahi district.

To preserve the sanctity of the occasion, the Puja Udjapan Parishad has issued strict guidelines. President of Rajshahi City Puja Udjapan Front, Subrata Roy, said the celebrations will focus on devotion and discipline, rather than extravagance.

General Secretary Ashok Kumar added that all organisers have been instructed to strictly follow the national and local directives issued by the central puja committee.

Prominent local political leaders including Mijanur Rahman Minu, Nazrul Huda, and Mamunur Rashid confirmed that all 103 city-based pujas are under the supervision of law enforcement agencies, including police and Ansar personnel. Coordination meetings have already been held with the administration to ensure seamless celebration.