On the seventh month of Bengali calendar, that is Aswin Mash, Durga Pujo is held. That means September - October. Mostly at the end of September or at the beginning of October the Pujo is held. Durga Pujo starts from the day of Mahalaya, it's said that from that day Pitri Pokhyer sesh and Debi Pokhyer Suru. Which means the Era of Father ends and Goddess era starts. And officially the celebration starts from the sixth day, that means Sasthi. And ends on the 10th Day, that means Dashami. Images of the goddess—astride a lion, attacking the demon king Mahishasura—are placed at various pandals (elaborately decorated bamboo structures and galleries) and temples. So it's a 5 days celebrations for Bengalis, but 9 day celebration for the rest of the country as Navaratri is being celebrated from the day of Mahalaya. So it's not only Bengalis' most awaited festival, it's also the Biggest festival for the whole country. And not only Hindus but the other religions also take part of this.
We Bengalis celebrate Durga Pujo as our biggest festival by buying new dresses, distributing cloths among friends, relatives and needy people. And food takes a major part during Durga Pujo. The 6th and 8th day that means Sasthi & Astami should be Veg menu for most of us, at least for Lunch. But other 3 days non-veg is must. In most of the families, Mothers usually don't eat rice on Sasthi, luchi/sabudana/millet have been consumed for the sake of their child. And Astami lunch must be with Khichuri bhoj, labda, beguni, chatni & payesh. Let's prepare a list of the food we usually have during Durga Pujo.
