Happy Lakshmi Puja
Location: Kolkata Posted on: 6/10/2025
Lakshmi Puja's history in Bengal and Bangladesh is tied to its significance as a major festival of wealth and prosperity, with the Kojagari Lakshmi Puja being a key event. The custom involves welcoming Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, into homes on the full moon night after Durga Puja to bless families with good fortune. While the exact origins are not detailed, the practice has ancient roots, with Lakshmi's appearance from the churning of the ocean and her association with wealth and agricultural bounty pointing to her importance in a rice-cultivating society. In the Bengali context, the Kojagari festival involves specific rituals like the "Alakshmi Biday" (sending away of the Goddess of Poverty) and the drawing of alpana (intricate floor art) to welcome the goddess, making it a unique cultural expression of prosperity and spiritual purity. Historical Roots and Ancient Associations Ancient Texts: References to Lakshmi as the goddess of beauty and wealth can be found in ancient scriptures like the Rig Veda. Mythological Origins: According to myths, Lakshmi emerged from the churning of the ocean with a lotus in hand, or as the daughter of the sea god. Gajalakshmi Symbolism: The imagery of Gajalakshmi (Lakshmi flanked by two elephants) dates back to the first century before Christ, appearing on coins, indicating the deep antiquity of the belief. Cultural Significance in Bengal and Bangladesh Prosperity and Wealth: Lakshmi Puja is a primary Hindu festival in the region, dedicated to the goddess of wealth and good fortune. Kojagari Purnima: The festival is most prominent on Kojagari Purnima, the full moon night after Durga Puja, when it is believed Lakshmi visits homes to bestow blessings. Symbolic Rituals: Cleaning and Decoration: Homes are meticulously cleaned and decorated with lights and finery to welcome the goddess. Alpana: The floor of the house is adorned with intricate designs called alpana. Alakshmi Biday: A symbolic ritual where an idol of the Goddess of Poverty (Alakshmi) is made from cow dung and is "sent away" from the home using a winnowing fan. Connection to the Rice Cultivation Civilization Lakshmi's symbols—water, lotus, and elephants—are strongly associated with a wet rice civilization, underscoring the connection between agricultural bounty and the concept of wealth represented by the goddess. Modern Practices Family Participation: The entire family often participates in the cleaning and decorating of the house for the puja. Offerings: Devotees prepare special sweets and offerings, known as "Panchbhog" (a five-course offering), to please the goddess. Cultural Identity: In West Bengal, while Kali Puja is held on the day of Diwali, Lakshmi Puja is still a highly cherished festival, especially the Kojagari Purnima event, reflecting the unique cultural diversity of the region.
The Legends
Location: Kolkata Posted on: 6/10/2025
The legacy of Indian cricket has been beautifully carried forward through the golden hands of four iconic captains — Sourav Ganguly, MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma. Ganguly rebuilt Indian cricket from its toughest phase, instilling belief, aggression, and fearlessness. Dhoni took that spirit forward with his calm leadership, guiding India to historic ICC triumphs and global dominance. Kohli then redefined intensity and fitness, making India a powerhouse in all formats with his passion and consistency. And now, Rohit Sharma continues that proud legacy with grace and brilliance — leading India to multiple ICC finals and bringing home glory once again. Each of these legends has added their own chapter to the story of Indian cricket, ensuring the flame of excellence burns brighter with every generation. 🇮🇳🏏 #cricket
Sachin Tendulkar
Location: Kolkata Posted on: 6/10/2025
On This Day in 2013, Sachin Tendulkar Became the only Asian Cricketer To complete 50000 Runs in Cricket History.🇮🇳 (Overall 16th) M: 957 R: 50192 Avg: 49.84 100s: 142 50s: 246
Cricket
Location: Unknown Destination Posted on: 5/10/2025
Really our CHILDHOOD DAYS were AWESOME ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
My Dad
Location: Unknown Destination Posted on: 4/10/2025
That was the farewell day of my Dad in 2002 as Assistant Head Master... Miss you Dad. Whatever you stay you remain always well...