How Fish Connects Shakti & Bengali Culture in Durga Puja 

22th  september 2025

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Fish isn’t just food in Bengal—it’s auspicious. It symbolizes prosperity, fertility, and continuity of life. During Durga Puja, fish becomes a sacred offering to Maa Durga.

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The Sacred Role of Fish 

Durga represents Shakti, the cosmic feminine power. Shakti traditions once included rice, milk, and fish in rituals. Even today, fish symbolizes abundance & divine blessings.

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Shakti & Fish Connection 

Shakta Traditions: Offer hilsa, rohu, shol, punti as sacred bhog. Vaishnav Traditions: Prefer vegetarian offerings. Rituals differ, but faith remains the same.

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Regional Rituals 

Durga Puja boosts local markets. Fish trade flourishes, creating jobs & economic activity. Hilsa prices even touch the skies during Puja season!

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Socio-Economic Significance 

Saptami: Rui & Hilsa with rice. Ashtami: Doi Ilish, Shorshe Ilish, Punti fish curry. Navami: Muri Ghonto (fish head rice curry). Dashami: Shital Bhog – rice with fish chutney.

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Fish in Bhog: Saptami to Dashami 

Ancient times: Animal & fish sacrifices. Colonial era: Vegetarian influence grew. Today: Fish remains central to Bengali bhog—less sacrifice, more celebration.

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Ritual Evolution 

“Machh-e, Bhat-e Bangali” (Fish & Rice make a Bengali). Fish offerings are a way to welcome Maa Durga home. It’s not just food—it’s faith, identity & heritage.

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Emotional & Cultural Bond 

Before immersion, Maa is offered fish decorated with sindoor & rice grains. It signifies continuity of blessings for the household.

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