Durga Balidan is an important custom of Durga Puja which is observed on the day of Maha Navami. As the name suggests, Durga Balidan is about making a sacrifice in order to please Maa Durga and get her blessings.
If Navami falls before Sanya Kaal on the previous day then Sandhi Puja, Ashtami Puja and Maha Navami Puja are observed on the previous day i.e.on the day of Ashtami. But, the custom of Durga Balidan is performed on Navami only. This ritual should always be observed on Uday Vyapini Navami during Aparahna Kaal.
In the ancient times, animal sacrifice was quite prevalent on this day. But, now, animal sacrifice is strictly prohibited in several cultures and religions. So, people perform a symbolic sacrifice or Bali using vegetables such as pumpkin, cucumber or banana.
Durga Puja celebration of Belur Math in West Bengal is grand and popular. Even there, Bali is performed using a white pumpkin which is called Kushmanda and sugar cane.
Loading, please wait...