Mahalaya marks the end of “pitripokkho” (the fortnight of the forefathers) and the beginning of “Debipokkho” (the reign of the supreme goddess)- celebrating the power of a woman, the often ignored common day mendicant who also happens to be the more powerful, only not arrogant of the powers. A zillion years ago, it was a woman who saved the heaven from evil, or so goes our legend.
(Shiuli phool- Durga puja without shiuli is Christmas without Mistletoe)
As I stand infront of the mirror, this moment, I feel proud to be a woman. Who else has the power to create but us, a weak class often looked upon by the physically stronger and yet with such immense power that it can destroy civilizations? The power that is there within often lies not indulged. Perhaps this humility is what keeps us grounded, makes each one of us special.
Feeling special ladies? Let the sarees flow and adorn the doe-eyed chicas, then!
To all the women in blogland: Have a prosperous week ahead!
We need to go shopping Ruk 😛
Oh ree! This saturday is all we got. Sunday is Shoshti
OK. Am feeling powerful. 🙂
A very Happy Durga Puja to you and yours.
The shiuli phool is very pretty.
@ Janice: Hahahaha. Then let the party begin. You know I think I’m sounding like a feminist…Am I? Lol.
Oh and those orange stems you see, that can be used to color or stain cloth.
Yes indeed, dear Rukmini, I feel special after reading your words:) Beautiful festival and Goddess Durga. Very interesting information you gave us. Thank you, Your country’s culture never ceases to amaze me.
Isa! It is so good to see you here 🙂 I am so happy. Believe me, I actually felt every word I wrote. From the very moment the festival starts, I feel full of energy, full of power, full of hopes and full of positivity- like I can achieve anything in life. The road looks clear and bright-the same mundane everyday road. You must come to India to feel it yourself.
Like Durga – you are a goddess. Thanks for sharing this with me. One day, I will be in India and get to experience these beautiful ceremonies for myself!
Well, and so are you and we all are. You must come once during this particular festival and I promise you to show you India beyond travel guides.