Kali puja festival

Kali Puja is a regional public holiday observed in several Indian states on the new moon in the month of Kartik.
Also known as Dianita Kali Puja, Shyama Puja or Maharishi Puja, this is a Hindu festival dedicated to the goddess Kali.

History of Kali Puja

Kali is said to be the personification of Shakti (female power), which she wielded to kill all the demons and save the earth. The killing increased her blood lust, which took hold and she started killing anyone she felt had done a wrong. She was only stopped when Lord Shiva intervened and lay down in front of her. In art, Kali is often depicted with her tongue hanging out, depicting the moment when she realized she had stood on Lord Shiva and her rage subsided.

Kali Puja is celebrated to seek the help of the goddess in destroying evil and get her blessings for general happiness, health, wealth, and peace.

The puja rituals of Kali Puja take place at night. Devotees perform the puja using red hibiscus flowers as it is said to be her favorite. Fish is one of the most important items that is offered to her along with rice, lentils and sweets

The date of Kali Puja falls on the same day as Diwali, so while most of India worships the goddess Lakshmi on Diwali; Odisha, Bengal ,and  Assam worship goddess Kali.

Despite the ancient source of the legend, the festival of Kali Puja only grew in popularity in the 18th century. It was popularized in Bengal by King Krishna Chandra of Navadvipa, becoming a key festival in the 19th century.

How long until Kali Puja?
Kali Puja is in 3 days
Dates of Kali Puja in India
2024 Oct 31  2023 Nov 12  2022 Oct 24  2021 Nov 4  2020 Nov 14   Summary Kali Puja is celebrated on the new moon day of the Hindu month Kartik. It is celebrated on the same day as Diwali, when other regions worship the godess Lakshmi.

Which regions observe Kali Puja in 2022?
National Holiday	Regional Holiday	Not a public holiday	Govt Holiday
AssamOct 24   OdishaOct 24   West BengalOct 24