Sindoor Khela 2023: Celebrating Durga Puja - History, Rituals And Wishes To Share With Loved Ones

Sindoor Khela, an integral part of the grand Durga Puja festivities, is a beautiful and vibrant tradition that brings together Bengali women to celebrate the goddess Durga and the power of femininity. This year, in 2023, Sindoor Khela promises to be as colorful and joyous as ever, and here's everything you need to know about this special celebration.

When and How is Sindoor Khela Celebrated?

Sindoor Khela takes place on the final day of Durga Puja, which usually falls on Vijayadashami or Dashami. It is an exuberant event that takes place before the idols of Goddess Durga are immersed in water. The ceremony involves married women applying vermilion (sindoor) to each other, adorning white saris, and offering sweets, paan, and betel leaves to the goddess.

Sindur Khela Date

In 2023, Sindoor Khela will be joyfully celebrated on October 24, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Vijayadashmi or Dussehra.

History and Significance of Sindur Khela

Sindoor Khela holds a deep-rooted historical significance. It is believed that the tradition originated in the 18th century in West Bengal, India. It symbolizes the strength, love, and unity among women. The red vermilion, applied on married women's foreheads, represents the blessing of a long and prosperous married life. During the ritual, women pray for the well-being of their families and seek the goddess's blessings for the next year's Durga Puja.

The tradition is also a symbol of inclusivity as it transcends caste, creed, and age, with women from all backgrounds coming together to partake in this joyful celebration.

Sindur Khela Rituals and Celebrations

During Sindur Khela, Bengali women donned in exquisite traditional saris and adorned with jewelry, begin by applying sindoor to the goddess's forehead and feet. They then proceed to lovingly apply sindoor to each other, fostering a sense of sisterhood that radiates happiness and joy.

The ceremony known as Devi Boron plays a significant role in bidding adieu to the goddess. Devotees draw a betel leaf on their palms and gently touch it to the deity's face. This symbolic gesture is an act of wiping away any tears from Maa Durga's face as she prepares to depart from her parental home to reunite with her husband. The application of sindoor on her forehead and the adorning of her bangles (shakha and pola) are followed by the offering of sweets.

After the Devi Boron ritual, married women lovingly apply this sacred sindoor on each other's foreheads and faces. They also exchange sweets while fervently praying for the happiness and longevity of their married lives. The festivities culminate with the idol of Maa Durga being carried by devoted worshippers to a nearby water body for the immersion ceremony, signifying her return to nature and the cycle of life.

Sindoor Khela 2023: Wishes, Quotes And Messages

Sindoor Khela is not just about rituals but also about exchanging heartfelt wishes and messages. 

'On this auspicious day, may the sindoor of unity and togetherness bind us all in love and harmony. Happy Sindoor Khela 2023!'

'Wishing you a life filled with the joy and laughter we share during Sindoor Khela. Shubho Sindoor Khela!'

'May the sindoor signify the eternal bond of love and friendship. Happy Sindoor Khela 2023!'

'As we apply sindoor today, may the colors of happiness and prosperity never fade from your life. Shubho Sindoor Khela!'

'May Maa Durga bless you with a life as bright and joyful as the sindoor we celebrate with today. Happy Sindoor Khela!'

(This article is intended for your general information only. Zee News does not vouch for its accuracy or reliability.)