Bengal's grand Navami celebrations; culmination of Durga Puja

Bengal Maha Navami is the ninth day of Durga Puja as observed in Bengal, following the Kolkata panchang, and it is the last full day of the Goddess's stay on earth before her departure on Bijoya Dashami. The day begins with the Navami puja and pushpanjali; in many pandals and households a Navami homa is performed, and the traditional bali is offered — today almost everywhere a symbolic offering of ash gourd, sugarcane or banana. The Navami bhog is the grandest of the festival: khichuri, labra, beguni, chutney, payesh and many sweets are offered to the Goddess and shared among thousands. The evening of Navami — Navami Nishi — carries a special bittersweet feeling in Bengal, captured in the belief that Uma, the married daughter visiting her parents' home, must leave the next morning for Kailash; there is a popular longing that this night should never end. Pandals are crowded late into the night, dhunuchi dances are held to the rhythm of the dhak, and families spend the last evening with the Mother before the farewell.

Devotees fast until offering pushpanjali; thereafter bhog is shared.