|| THE GODDESS IN SPRING: A VIEW ON THIS AUSPICIOUS BASANTI PUJA || By Kunal Roy

Delving deep into the world of mythology and divinity, one would not be able to forsake the presence of the Goddess Durga, fondly known as Parashakti in the Markandeya Purana. Markandeya was a staunch devotee of Lord Shiva. The vivid description of the miracles of the Goddess has been encapsulated in the religious book of “Sri Sri Chandi Charan amrita”. The origin of this Basanti Puja is found in the opening section of the Markandeya Purana. The Goddess is worshipped in Spring like that of in Autumn. There is no difference in performing the rituals and all the essential activities related to this occasion are carried out with a touch of absolute perfection!

   The story narrates that King Suratha of Bolapur( now Bolpur) and Samadhi Vyasha lost their property and were deprived of material happiness. Having lost everything, they moved here and there in search of peace and the reasons behind the illusions which were still tormenting their heart and soul. Finally they managed to pay their visit in the ashrama of the sage Medhas. The place was devoid of the worldly pains and sufferings. Everything seemed to be in an utopian state. An epicurean delight sweeped the courtyard of the sage’s ashrama. Medhas, the humble sage cordially invited them and listened to their pangs. Both of them explained everything to the sage. The sage became pensive and to tranquil the tempest of their souls, he chanted the hymns of the Goddess and narrated the tales of the Goddess replete with miracles. Both became quite curious about the whole matter and listened to the deeds of the Goddess to protect her creation everytime from the clutches of monstrosity. The sage advised them to worship the mother of the universe to appease to get back everything in their life.

  The king Suratha and Samadhi Vyasha began to create the clay image of the Goddess in the Garh forest. They worshipped her in Spring with all the essential rituals required for the occasion. Right from that very hour, the Goddess Durga is worshipped in Spring amid pomp and splendour. Her blessings brought back everything which both of them once lost! Animals were sacrificed and this practice is still in vogue! This trend of Basanti Puja still attracts the people. The devotees gather to make their offerings to the Goddess. It ought to be remembered that she is present in every particle of the cosmos. The whole universe begins from her and completes the cycle in her. Let us all worship her and celebrate this occasion today to remove the obstacles and lead a life of pure peace and prosperity!!