Kolkata

Rituals marking the formal commencement of West Bengal's biggest festival, Durga Puja, were conducted at pandals on Friday as revellers began visiting decorated marquees and prayed to the Mother Goddess on 'Mahashashthi'.

'Kalparamba' ritual was conducted to start the festivities, while 'bodhan' or invocation of the goddess will also be held, even as mothers offered prayers for their children's well-being.

Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari, while extending his greetings, said in a social media post: "I convey my best wishes to all on the auspicious occasion of Mahashashthi."

'Bodhan' ritual marks the awakening of Goddess Durga for her battle against demon king Mahishasura. The ritual is associated with the legend of Lord Ram invoking the goddess at an unconventional time of the year, a tradition known as 'Akal Bodhan'.

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People, meanwhile, started thronging puja marquees since this morning to admire the idols and decorations. From traditional neighbourhood pujas to elaborate themed installations, pandals across Kolkata are expected to draw large crowds over the next few days.