Monday marks the ninth day of autumn, a significant day in this year's Durga Puja celebration.
Maha Nabami, the most crucial of all pujas, commenced early in the morning at the Dhakeshwari temple in Dhaka.
The hearts of Goddess Durga devotees, from young boys to the elderly, are seen brimming with satisfaction and relief.
The day is being celebrated with offerings followed by anjali (prayer) to Goddess Durga and sacrificing pumpkins, bananas and cucumbers at temples and makeshift mandaps across Bangladesh.
On Nabami, Goddess Durga is worshipped as Mahisasuramardini which means the Annihilator of the Buffalo Demon.
It is the penultimate day of Navratri, and it is dedicated to worshipping the Goddess Durga, who is believed to have manifested her full divine power by this day. It is also the day when Durga is believed to have defeated the buffalo demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
At Ramna temple, the atmosphere was filled with festive joy. An array of shops selling colorful ornaments, jewelry, and delectable sweets added to the vibrant celebration.
Pooja Sarkar, a university student, said: "Among all the pujas, the significance of this one is unparalleled. Today, we observe Nabami after the sandhi puja on Sunday. There are several ceremonial rituals to be followed today."
Another visitor at the temple said: "The grand puja at Ramna holds a special place in our hearts. We visit this temple every year, also offering worship to Lord Shiva. Nabami puja is of utmost significance to us."
As night falls on Nabami, a grand Maha Aarti is performed, accompanied by sacrificial ceremonies.
Biplab Singh, an attendant at the dormitory of the Ramna Kali Temple, said: "Our puja tradition is deeply rooted in history. It is here that we craft all the idols for Dhaka. We diligently prepare prasad and entertain devotees. This year's puja has been exceptionally bustling. We prepared prasad for five thousand people this morning. It is a lot of work, but the atmosphere of worship is truly special."
With Dashami just a day away, there is a sense of melancholy among devotees and enthusiasts.
Pooja Sarkar said: "We will undoubtedly feel a sense of sorrow. Dashami has its own set of rituals, and to lift our spirits, we will put vermilion on each other aspiring for prosperity in life. This helps us bid a heartfelt farewell to Mother Durga and alleviates our sense of loss."
