Welcome to Durga Puja, a celebration that transcends time, weaving together myth, culture, and the eternal rhythms of nature. At its heart lies the story of Goddess Durga, the invincible mother warrior, summoned by the supreme gods Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara (Shiva) to restore balance when the demon Mahishasura threatened to plunge the world into chaos. Armed with weapons gifted by the supreme deities, Durga rode her lion into battle, embodying both the fierce protector and the loving mother, vanquishing the demon to restore peace and harmony. This epic tale is more than just a story; it symbolizes the eternal victory of good over evil, light over darkness, hope over despair, and righteousness over tyranny.
Durga Puja is celebrated during the autumn harvest, a time when the land itself is teeming with life and abundance. Just as the Irish hold the land sacred, offering prayers and gratitude for the bounty of crops, we too honor Durga as the embodiment of nature’s life-giving forces. The grains, fruits, & flowers offered during this festival are symbols of gratitude for the earth’s generosity, mirroring the ancient Celtic rituals that revered the earth as both provider & protector.
As we gather in the vibrant atmosphere of Durga Puja, we are reminded of its historical significance. During the British Raj, the festival became a platform for revolutionaries to gather, to ignite the flames and desire for independence. It was not merely a religious event, but a beacon of hope and unity for people longing to break free from the shackles of colonial rule. This shared struggle for freedom connects the histories of India and Ireland, as both nations have walked the path of resistance, yearning for sovereignty.
In this, our festival is more than a celebration—it is a reminder of resilience, of the indomitable human spirit that fights for justice and honor. As the Irish honor their folklore and ties to the land, we invite you to see in Durga the same forces that shape our shared humanity. the fierce love of the earth, the desire for freedom, and the triumph of good over evil.
We welcome you not just as guests but as fellow travellers on the journey of celebrating the sacred ties that bind land, community, and spirit.
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Dates: 27th
& 28th September 2025
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Venue:
Drum Community Centre,
Summerhill, Crannagh,
Athlone, Co. Roscommon,
N37 T298
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Parking:
Available
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Registration:
Click here
Saturday, 27th September 2025
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Puja Start
Bodhon, Adhibash, Saptami Puja & Ashtami Puja
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Pushpanjali
Pushpanjali & Prasad Distribution
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Tea/Coffee
Tea/Coffee
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Kumari Puja
Kumari Puja
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Bhog & Aarti
Bhog & Aarti
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Bhog Lunch
Lunch against coupon
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Break
Break
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Cultural Events
Cultural Events
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Tea/Coffee
Tea/Coffee
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Evening Aarti
Dhunuchi & Evening Aarti
Sunday, 28th September 2025
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Puja Start
Sandhi Puja, Navami Puja & Dashami Puja
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Pushpanjali
Pushpanjali & Prasad Distribution
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Tea/Coffee
Tea/Coffee
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Bhog & Aarti
Bhog & Aarti
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Sidur Khela
Thakur Boron & Sidur Khela
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Gala Lunch
Lunch against coupon
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Time for Masti
Family Games & DJ Beats
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Tea/Coffee
Tea/Coffee
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Bishorjan
Bishorjan
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Closing
Cleanup & Packup