What is the importance of Maha Saptami rituals in Navratri 2025?

Maha Saptami marks the beginning of Utsav Puja in Bengal. On this day, the idol of Goddess Durga is infused with life force in a ritual called Pran Pratishtha. In other regions, people perform special aarti and fasting, as it is considered a highly auspicious day to destroy negativity.

For me, Maha Saptami is special because it’s when Durga Puja truly starts in our city. The pandals light up, dhakis (drummers) play their beats, and the festive mood reaches its peak. It feels like the Goddess herself has arrived.