Durga Puja 2026
Join us for our biggest annual celebration honouring Goddess Durga with traditional rituals, vibrant cultural programs and a community feast that brings together people from all backgrounds.
About Durga Puja
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.
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.
Event Details
Event Information
- Dates: 17th & 18th October 2026
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Venue:
Drum Community Centre
Summerhill, Crannagh
Athlone, Co. Roscommon
N37 T298 - Parking: Free parking available
- Registration: Opens 1st September 2026. Register early, celebrate together!
What to Expect
- Traditional Puja ceremonies
- Cultural performances
- Authentic Indian cuisine
- Community bonding activities
- Family-friendly environment
- Photography opportunities
Event Schedule (Tentative - full schedule to be confirmed closer to the event)
Saturday, 17th October 2026
Puja Start
Bodhon, Adhibash, Saptami Puja & Ashtami Puja
Pushpanjali
Pushpanjali & Prasad Distribution
Tea/Coffee Break
Refreshments for all attendees
Kumari Puja
Traditional worship ceremony
Bhog & Aarti
Sacred offering and prayer ceremony
Bhog Lunch
Traditional Bengali feast (choose your meal ticket at registration)
Cultural Events
Music, dance and cultural performances
Evening Aarti
Dhunuchi & Evening Prayer ceremony
Sunday, 18th October 2026
Navami Puja
Morning prayer ceremony
Pushpanjali
Flower offering ceremony
Bhog & Aarti
Sacred offering and final prayers
Community Lunch
Final feast together
Sindur Khela
Traditional farewell ceremony
Visarjan
Ceremonial conclusion
Event Location
Drum Community Centre
Athlone, Co. Roscommon
Ireland N37 T298
Venue Features
- Free parking available
- Wheelchair accessible
- Kitchen facilities
- WiFi available
- Clean facilities
Join Us for Durga Puja 2026
Be part of this incredible celebration of culture, tradition and community. Registration ensures we can prepare adequately for all attendees.
Registration Details
Registration opens 1st September 2026. Register early, celebrate together!
