Devotees celebrate 'Mahasaptami' in West Bengal

Kolkata, Sept 25 (ANI): Devotees celebrated 'Mahasaptami', the second day of Durga Puja here on Friday.

The day is significant as on this day, Goddess Durga attacked the 'Mahisasura' (demon) with her holy power. 'Mahisasura' symbolises the evil power that exists within the human being.

"On this day, 'Mahisasura' attacked on Goddess Durga with all his strength. Mother Durga also attacked him back with all her holy power. So, 'Mahisasura' in a way symbolises evil power that exists within us. We pray to Goddess Durga to destroy this evil power. That is the significance of Saptami," said Srutinath Banerjee, a priest.

Aesthetically designed and decorated pandals have turned Kolkata into a city of temples.

Local puja committees compete with one another to make their makeshift temples attractive. Some are modelled after famous buildings or monuments.

Illuminations are an added attraction, as Kolkata"s artistic electricians are known across the country for their skill.

Worship of Durga is part of the ten-day festival of "Navaratri", which culminates in "Dusshera" celebrations.

The festival, which symbolises the triumph of good over evil, is marked by prayers, processions and musical programmes. (ANI)