Durga Puja is a celebration of the Divine Mother’s arrival on earth. Maha Shashthi is the day that officially begins the festival through the Bodhon ritual, where Maa Durga is ceremonially awakened.
This ritual marks her descent from the celestial realm, inviting her divine presence into the community and homes of devotees, setting the stage for the worship, prayers, and festivities that follow.
What Is Bodhon?
The word “Bodhon” means awakening or invocation. On Maha Shashthi, devotees symbolically awaken the goddess from her cosmic rest. This ritual is also called Akal Bodhon, because Durga is invoked in autumn, an “untimely” period according to the traditional Hindu calendar.
According to legend, it was Lord Ram who first performed this Bodhon before his battle with Ravan, invoking Durga’s blessings for victory.
Rituals of Bodhon on Shashthi
- Kalash Sthapana: A water-filled kalash is placed at the base of a bael tree (bilva), representing the presence of Maa Durga.
- Sacred Items: Offerings include honey, curd, ghee, sugar, flowers, kush grass, sesame, grains, myrobalan fruits, and a green coconut. Each symbolizes purity and prosperity.
- Unveiling the Idol: The face of Maa Durga’s idol is revealed, marking her awakening from divine seclusion to earthly engagement.
- Chanting of Mantras: Vedic verses from the Devi Mahatmya (Chandi Path) are recited. Offerings of flowers and bel leaves follow.
- Amantran and Adhivas: Formal invitation and installation rituals invite the goddess to reside in the idol and the pandal, sanctifying the space for worship.
- Women’s Welcome: Married women participate by offering vermilion, betel leaves, and water, welcoming the goddess with maternal affection.
Symbolism of Ritual Elements
- Kalash: Represents the womb of creation, filled with life-energy and auspiciousness.
- Bel (Bilva) Leaves: Sacred to Durga, they symbolize purity, devotion, and protection.
- Unveiling the Face: Marks the transition from divine rest to active engagement with devotees, making her blessings accessible.
Spiritual Meaning of Bodhon
- Akal Bodhon: A reminder that divine help can be sought at any time of need, breaking barriers of time and tradition.
- Descent of the Divine Mother: The ritual embodies Durga’s arrival with her children, blessing humanity with protection and prosperity.
- Unity and Shakti: By awakening Durga together, communities share her energy, fostering harmony and strength.
- Personal Transformation: For devotees, Bodhon is not only about invoking the goddess externally but also awakening the inner self to discipline, devotion, and purity.
Bodhon on Maha Shashthi transforms the community into a sacred space of devotion, awakening divine power within and around. When Maa Durga is welcomed with sincerity and faith, her blessings bring courage, clarity, and harmony to all.
Feature Image Credit: Pinterest.
