Photo: BSS

MUNSHIGANJ, March 24 (BSS) - The 531-year-old traditional Sri Sri Ma Raksha Kali Puja began today in Shekharnagar of the district attracting hundreds of thousands of devotees from home and abroad, including India, Nepal and Sri Lanka.

The centuries-old religious festival officially commenced today in Shekharnagar under Sirajdikhan upazila of the district. 

It is regarded as a special religious observance for followers of the Hindu community. Kali Puja is typically held on the night of the new moon, when Goddess Kali is worshipped as the protector from danger, the destroyer of evil forces and the guardian against misfortune.

According to tradition, members of the local Rishi community have been organizing this puja since the year 1495, seeking protection during difficult times and the elimination of evil forces.

The main programme began this morning with a procession carrying sacred offerings around the village. After day-long worship of various deities, the main Kali Puja will begin at 12:01 am tonight.

On the second day, Wednesday, devotees will fulfill their vows through the traditional offering of goats, with nearly a thousand sacrifices expected from early morning. The evening will feature devotional rituals and cultural programmes.

On the occasion, a seven-day rural fair has been organized at the Kali temple premises in Shekhanagar. 
The fair includes stalls selling bamboo and cane products, household goods, traditional tools and a variety of food, along with amusement rides for children.

President of the Puja Udjapan Committee of Shekharnagar Kali Temple, Ratan Chandra Das, said local Member of Parliament Sheikh Md. Abdullah, Deputy Commissioner Syeda Nurmahal Ashrafi and Superintendent of Police Md. Menhajul Alam have visited the venue and assured overall cooperation, including security arrangements.

He said every year, the Kali Puja attracts hundreds of thousands of people from both Hindu and Muslim communities, and has evolved into a major festival of communal harmony and a vibrant fair. Adequate security measures have been taken to ensure a peaceful celebration of the event, he said.