Navratri 2025: Why Bengalis Celebrate Goddess Durga's Festival With Fish?

Navratri 2025: The nine-day festival of celebrating different forms of Aadi Shakti has begun. Nearly every corner of the nation is immersed with the devotion and festive spirit around Navratri. While some are celebrating the nine-day festival with traditional dances like Dandiya and Garba, others perform Jagrata which includes dancing, singing and praying of Goddess Durga throughout the night.

In West Bengal, Navratri is celebrated with huge joy and fervour. One of the most common tradition of Navratri celebration in the state is indulgence in feasts, including fish and chicken. The predominant and common tradition in Bengal is in stark contrast to the 'No-non veg' and 'Nine-day' fasting prevalent in rest of the states. This divergence in traditions raises curiosity about the distinct cultural practices in Bengal during this period.

Durga Puja in West Bengal

Bengal's Durga Puja coincides with Navratri. But it doesn't start with the festival, but rather ends on Panchami, ie the fifth day of the festival. While, Navratri across the Indian states, is a festival about spiritual cleansing, in Bengal it is about the celebration of Goddess Durga's homecoming.

According to Hindu scriptures, these days mark her visit to her maternal abode, prompting celebrations filled with food and traditional offerings.

Durga Puja and Pompous Celebration

The joyous return of Goddess Durga is celebrated with elaborate festing in West Bengal. This is the main reason why, non-vegetarian dishes are prepared as part of this celebration. As per reports, it symbolises happiness and abundance. It is also believed that mutton and fish, cooked without onion anr garlic, can be offered to the goddess during rituals like Sandhi Puja or Kali Puja.

West Bengal's long coast line and the presence of rivers, makes sea food, mainly fish a major part of the state's cuisine. Fish is a staple in Bengali weddings and ceremonies. Many believe that it represents fertility and prosperity. This culinary tradition underscores the region's rich cultural heritage and its emphasis on abundance during festive times.

Mythological Roots of Durga Puja

The mythological significance of Durga Puja is profound within the Bengali Shakta tradition. Goddess Durga embodies supreme Shakti, representing divine energy that sustains the universe. Her legendary battle against Mahishasur symbolises the triumph of good over evil, celebrated through grand feasts.

This epic confrontation between Goddess Durga and Mahishasur is commemorated not just through indulgence but as a sacred expression of devotion. The ritualistic preparation of sacrificial meat reflects the goddess's nurturing and protective energy, reinforcing spiritual strength and cultural identity.