Nagpur: The traditional ritual of Sindoor Khela marks a colourful and emotional part of Durga Puja celebrations at the Sarbajanin Durga Puja Committee’s pandal in CPWD Quarters, Katol Road, Nagpur. The ritual brings members of the Bengali community together to bid farewell to Goddess Durga and celebrate the bonds of family, friendship and sisterhood.
During Sindoor Khela, married women offer vermilion to Goddess Durga before applying sindoor to one another’s foreheads and cheeks. The ritual symbolises prayers for prosperity, marital well-being and happiness while reflecting Bengali cultural traditions passed down through generations.
A 57-Year-Old Tradition
The Sarbajanin Durga Puja Committee at CPWD Quarters is celebrating 57 years of the festival in 2026. This year’s pandal draws inspiration from traditional Bengali architecture and features a 12.5-foot idol of Goddess Durga, crafted using clay brought from the banks of the Ganga River and installed in the traditional paanch chaali pattern.
The annual celebration has become an important cultural gathering for Nagpur’s Bengali community, bringing together devotees and visitors for religious ceremonies and cultural programmes.
Sindoor Khela remains one of the most distinctive rituals of Vijayadashami, combining devotion with a festive farewell to the Goddess. The occasion carries a message of unity and the hope of welcoming Maa Durga back in the coming year.
