Many parts of India celebrate Navratri, the nine-day festival dedicated to Maa Durga, by giving up non-veg food and observing fasts. But have you ever wondered why Bengalis celebrate Durga Puja differently? Unlike other communities, for them, Navratri and Durga Puja mean enjoying fish. It holds not only cultural importance but also spiritual significance. Here’s why!
Why Do Bengalis Celebrate Durga Puja By Eating Fish?
Durga Puja is one of the most celebrated festivals among Bengalis. While many communities in India give up non-veg food entirely, Bengalis celebrate the festival by indulging in fish and other non-veg items. They cannot imagine this festival without this festive treat. For them, Durga Puja is not about fasting but about celebration, community, spirituality, and expressing devotion to Maa Durga without restraint. Bengalis welcome Maa’s homecoming with a feast, which obviously includes a lot of fish.
For them, fish is considered auspicious. Bengalis believe it symbolises prosperity, fertility, and the continuity of life. During Durga Puja, it is a sacred offering. They follow a “Shakta tradition”, celebrating the triumph of good over evil (Maa Durga’s victory over Mahishasura) with feasting. Non-vegetarian food is not seen as a violation of purity but as a way to express gratitude, hospitality, and the fullness of life.
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Fish As A Spiritual Staple
Bengali Durga Puja rituals are unique. They worship Maa Durga with hilsa, rohu, and other local fish. Fish has been a staple in the Bengali diet for centuries. The river-rich region of Bengal has always been abundant in fish, representing the bounty of nature.
In some Tantric and Shakta traditions, fish is offered to Maa Durga as bhog and later distributed as prasad among devotees. A powerful symbol of fertility and abundance, fish have been considered divine for centuries in Bengali culture. Devotees also offer fish to the goddess on Dashami, before her immersion, believing it protects her on her journey back to Mount Kailash.
That is why, if you ever visit a Bengali Durga Puja pandal, you will see a variety of fish as part of the celebration. From Ilish Shorshe to fish cutlets and fish served in mustard curry, you will be spoilt for choice.
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It is fascinating how Bengalis celebrate Durga Puja. Did you know about the importance of fish in their culture? Let us know!
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ Krishna Soeryoputro
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