Understanding the Significance of Sandhi Puja in Durga Puja

Durga Puja, one of the most celebrated festivals in Hinduism, marks the victory of Devi Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. Within this festival, Sandhi Puja holds a significant place, traditionally performed at a crucial juncture of the 8th and 9th lunar days, known as Sandhikhan.

What is Sandhi Puja?

Sandhi Puja is performed during the Sandhikhan, which is the transition period from the 8th to the 9th lunar day, marking the interface between the two phases of Durga Puja. It is considered the most important Pūjā as it is when Devi Durga is invoked as Cāmuā Bhagavatī. The worshiper offers 1008 lotuses, 1008 lamps, balī (merit), and sūrā (alcohol, traditionally symbolic) to the goddess. Besides, Caturaī Yoginī is worshipped as well.

Myth of Durga's Manifestation as Chamunda

The myth of Durga manifesting as Chamunda is a crucial part of Sandhi Puja. According to the legend, while Devi and Mahishasura were engaged in a fierce battle, two of his generals, Chando and Mundo, attacked her from behind. Devi appeared as a radiant woman with a crescent moon on her forehead, a tilak on her forehead, and a garland around her neck. She was dressed in a yellow sari and wore gold earrings, radiating a golden glow. Her ten hands held ten different weapons. However, when she faced Chando and Mundo, her face turned blue with anger.

From her third eye emerged a Devi holding a large falchion and a shield, known as Chamunda. She had a large face, a bloody tongue, and sunken, bloodshot eyes. With a blood-curdling scream, Chamunda leapt forward and killed both attackers. This moment signifies the exact junction of the 8th and 9th lunar days, marking the commencement of Sandhi Puja.

Historical Methods for Measuring Sandhi Puja Timing

To ensure precise timing, Sandhi Puja was traditionally performed using a variety of methods. One of the methods involved the use of a bronze bowl with a small hole placed in a bucket of water. When the bowl took exactly 24 minutes to sink into the water, it signified the start of Sandhi Puja. Cannons would be fired to announce the moment, accompanied by the sight of Devis footprints on a plate.

A specific method from Sabarno Raychoudhury of Barisha involved burning lāyta and pholui types of fish, a non-traditional yet symbolic ritual indicating the start of this crucial Puja.

Things Required for Sandhi Puja

The traditional Sandhi Puja requires a meticulous offering of 108 lotus flowers, one fruit, a grain of rice for noibiddo (a ritual offering), 108 clay lamps, clothes, jewellery, hibiscus garlands, and wood apple (bel) leaves. Despite changes in societal practices, these rituals still hold significance in some 200-250 year old pujas, reflecting the enduring cultural and spiritual values of the festival.

Conclusion

Sandhi Puja in Durga Puja serves as a pivotal moment of transformation and devotion. It is a holistic and intricate ritual that encapsulates the essence of the festival, blending mythology with ancient practices to honor the fierce yet compassionate Devi Durga.