Durga Puja, the most significant festival for the Hindu community in Bangladesh, is in full force across the country. In Dhaka, temples and mandaps are glowing with colorful lights as devotees celebrate Maha Ashtami, one of the most important days of the festival.
 
A visit to several puja mandaps in the city revealed a joyful atmosphere, with worshippers celebrating enthusiastically. Temples like the Dhakeshwari National Temple and others across the city are bustling with activity, as the religious rituals continue under tight security.
 
Durga Puja began on October 9 with Maha Shashthi, followed by Maha Saptami on October 10. Today, marks Maha Ashtami, and the celebrations will continue with Maha Nabami tomorrow. The festival will culminate with the immersion of the Durga idols in rivers on October 13, marking the end of the Sharadiya Durgotshab.
 
Speaking from Nazirabazar in Old Dhaka, local resident Ratna Pal shared her excitement, saying, "We are celebrating the festival with great enthusiasm. We want to share the joy of our celebration with all."
 
The vibrant atmosphere was palpable at the Shri Shri Ramna Kali Mandir, where large crowds gathered to witness the festivities. The sound of traditional dhaak and dazzling lights filled the temple grounds as more visitors continued to arrive late into the night.
 
Mrinal Majumdar, a member of the temple's Puja Celebration Committee, noted the overwhelming response this year. "There was a larger crowd in the morning, which thinned out around noon. But as the evening progressed, more people are pouring in. Compared to last year, we have seen a significant increase in visitors. There is no fear about security; everything has been going smoothly."
 
Rodeshi Mukit, a visitor enjoying the festivities, described her experience: "I have been visiting several mandaps since morning. From here, I'll head to Dhakeshwari Temple. It's wonderful to see how festive everything feels. Festivals are meant to be enjoyed, after all."
 
Security at the various temples and mandaps has been a priority. Mohammad Asad, officer-in-charge (investigation) of Shahbagh Police Station, assured, "Our personnel are on duty, and there have been no security issues so far."
 
As the Durga Puja celebrations continue, the festive spirit remains high, with people of all ages and backgrounds taking part in this cultural and religious event.