Durga Puja, for Bengalis, is much more than a religious festival—it is an emotion, a collective celebration that transcends faith itself. Whether one is a believer or an atheist, every Bengali immerses themselves in the grandeur of these four days. And yet, as the rhythmic beats of the dhaak fade on Dashami, a bittersweet moment arrives with the immersion of Maa Durga’s idol into rivers, lakes, and ponds—symbolising her return to Lord Shiva’s abode.

But Dashami is not merely about farewell. It is the beginning of something equally cherished—Bijoya.

As Dashami passes and the immersion of Goddess Durga takes place, a sense of melancholy envelops the hearts of every devotee. The four days of celebration seem to vanish all too quickly. While there may be a hint of sadness as Bijoya Dashami marks the day of bidding farewell to Durga Maa and her children, it is also a joyous occasion.

In Bengali tradition, the word Bijoya literally means “Victory.” “Shubho Bijoya” thus translates to “The Auspicious Victory,” a phrase rich with warmth, blessings, and togetherness. Bijoya is not confined to just one day—it begins with Vijaya Dashami and continues until Kali Puja or Diwali, nearly a month of extended joy and bonding.

As children, the immersion always left us heavy-hearted. After months of anticipation and festivity, the return to school uniforms and textbooks felt abrupt. Today, that same feeling translates into a return to office targets, spreadsheets, and meetings. The celebration feels fleeting, yet Bijoya softens the melancholy with its own charm.

In earlier times, Bijoya meant visiting elders’ homes, seeking blessings, and—most importantly—indulging in the Bijoya-special feasts of each household. Platters of sweets and savoury delights awaited us, and we secretly rated the culinary skills of each home we visited! It was a playful tradition that infused the season with laughter and lighthearted rivalry.

Today, the spirit continues, though in a more compact form. Modern Bijoya Sammilani gatherings bring families and friends together in one place, where they exchange greetings, embrace one another with the warmth of kolakuli (কোলাকুলি), and share the season’s delicacies. Kolakuli is not just a hug—it is an expression of unity, affection, and joy, a reminder that relationships remain the heart of this celebration.

The immersion (bisarjan) is never just an ending—it is a promise. A promise whispered through chants, songs, and prayers:

“Asche bochor abar hobe.”
(It will happen again next year.)

বিসর্জনের জলে মিশে স্নিগ্ধ সুর,
আশ্বাস দেয় মা — ফিরবে আবার ভোর।
আনন্দে ভরে উঠুক প্রাণের ঘর,
সবার হৃদয়ে থাকুক উজ্জ্বল আলো পর।

বিদায়ে নয়, আশায় গাঁথা এই ক্ষণ,
প্রাণের কোণে বাজুক মঙ্গল ধ্বনন।
মনকে বলি — দুঃখ যাবে ভেসে,
আসছে বছর মা আসবে হেসে।

আসছে বছর আবার হবে।

In the waters of farewell flows a gentle tune,
The Mother assures — she’ll return with the dawn soon.
Let every home be filled with joy and light,
In every heart may hope and love shine bright.

Not an end, but a promise this moment we keep,
In every soul let blessings softly seep.
I tell my heart — sorrow will fade away,
Next year the Mother will return, smiling, to stay.

Next year, it will happen again.

It is this continuity—of devotion, of togetherness, of joy—that makes Bijoya so special. It is not merely about bidding farewell to the goddess, but about carrying her blessings forward, nurturing positive energy, and celebrating the victory of good over evil in our lives.

So, as the waters of farewell ripple with emotion, may every home be filled with joy, light, and hope.

Shubho Bijoya! শুভ বিজয়া!