GUWAHATI, Oct 10 � The Durga Puja celebrations formally began today with the ceremonial installation of the idols of Goddess Durga and Lakshmi, Saraswati, Kartik and Ganesh. Today is Maha Sasthi.
The Maha Sasthi day marks the beginning of the Goddess' four-day earthly sojourn along with her children.
This time, the Goddess has descended on a dola (palanquin) and will leave on elephant back.
The ceremonial installation called bilba bodhan was done in the evening amidst chanting of hymns, blowing of conch shells, beating of the dhak, and aarati, creating the perfect ambience for the holy occasion.
While the devout visited the city's puja mandaps in the evening, the real festivities will begin from tomorrow, i.e., the Maha Saptami.
The city has geared up for the celebrations in over 400 beautifuly decorated and illuminated puja mandaps.
