Festivals in Bihar in September 2025
Bihar, a state steeped in history and culture, is known for its vibrant festivals that reflect the rich traditions and diverse communities residing in the region. In September 2025, Bihar will celebrate several notable festivals that offer a glimpse into the spiritual and social fabric of its people. This article delves into the key festivals, their significance, rituals, and the ways they are celebrated across the state.
Read More About Hindu Philosophy
1. Mahalaya (September 14, 2025)
Mahalaya marks the beginning of the Durga Puja festival, a significant event for Hindus, especially in Bihar. It is the day when devotees pay homage to their ancestors and invoke their blessings for the upcoming festivities. The rituals performed during Mahalaya set the tone for the grand celebration of Durga Puja, which follows shortly after.
Significance:
- Ancestral Worship: Devotees perform Tarpan, a ritual to pay respect to deceased ancestors, ensuring their souls find peace and solace.
- Cultural Importance: Mahalaya is celebrated with recitations of the ‘Chandi Path,’ a devotional text narrating the stories of Goddess Durga.
Rituals:
- Tarpan Ceremony: Families gather near rivers or water bodies to perform the Tarpan ceremony, offering rice balls and water to their ancestors.
- Sankalpa: A commitment to observe the rituals and preparations for the Durga Puja celebrations.
2. Kali Puja (September 30, 2025)
While not as widely celebrated as Durga Puja, Kali Puja is also observed in some parts of Bihar, especially among the Shakta sect. It honors Goddess Kali, the fierce form of Goddess Durga, representing the destructive aspect of the divine.
Significance:
- Divine Feminine Power: Kali Puja emphasizes the power and strength of women, and is a reminder of the duality of creation and destruction.
- Spiritual Cleansing: Devotees believe that worshipping Kali can cleanse them of their sins and misfortunes.
Rituals:
Night Vigil: Many devotees keep a night vigil, singing bhajans (devotional songs) and engaging in collective prayers.
Offerings: Devotees prepare offerings of fruits, sweets, and sometimes animal sacrifices in rural areas.
Conclusion
The festivals celebrated in Bihar during September 2025 reflect the rich tapestry of traditions, spirituality, and community spirit that define the state. From the solemn observance of Mahalaya to the vibrant celebrations of Navratri and Vijaya Dashami, each festival brings together people in a shared experience of devotion, culture, and joy. As these festivities unfold, they not only honor the divine but also strengthen the bonds within communities, ensuring that the traditions of Bihar continue to thrive for generations to come.
