Year after year, appeal of Belur Math’s ‘Kumari Puja’ remains undiminished

Howrah (West Bengal) (RNI) On the auspicious occasion of Maha Ashtami, Belur Math — the global headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission — once again witnessed the traditional Kumari Puja, where a young girl is worshipped as the embodiment of Goddess Durga. The century-old ritual, initiated by Swami Vivekananda in 1901, continues to draw thousands of devotees with undiminished devotion and fervour.

Rooted in the philosophy of “service to God through service to humanity,” the Kumari Puja is both a spiritual celebration of womanhood and a reaffirmation of women’s dignity. Historical records note that nine girls were worshipped during the first such ritual at Belur Math. Since then, it has become one of the most cherished highlights of Durga Ashtami.

Explaining its essence, Jayita Sarkar, a Kolkata-based teacher of English literature and a follower of Swamiji’s teachings, said:
“The main idea behind Kumari Puja is respect for ‘women-power’ and ‘women-dignity’ in society. Inspired by Shri Ramakrishna and blessed by Maa Sarada, Swamiji established this tradition so that people would learn to see divinity in womanhood. For every woman, this occasion is truly special. Each time I attend, I am deeply moved by its spiritual depth.”

Echoing the thought, senior Calcutta High Court counsel Sampa Chowdhury added that the ritual reflects Shri Ramakrishna Paramhansa’s vision of perceiving the Divine Mother in every woman.

This year too, the puja began around 9 a.m. and concluded shortly after 10 a.m., conducted with reverence by the monks of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission. Devotees from across the country and abroad thronged Belur Math to witness the event, which, beyond its ritualistic splendour, also conveys a timeless message of honouring women’s rightful place in society.

The day’s celebrations at Belur Math will culminate with the Sandhi Puja, performed at the sacred juncture of Maha Ashtami and Maha Navami, commemorating Goddess Durga’s triumph over the demons Chanda and Munda.