Daily writing prompt

What is your favorite holiday? Why is it your favorite?

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Hello dear friends,

I hope this blog finds you in a cheerful mood, sipping your favorite tea and basking in the comfort of a new day.

Today’s writing prompt nudged a tender corner of my heart:
“What is your favorite holiday? Why is it your favorite?”

As I closed my eyes to reflect, a cascade of memories came dancing in — some wrapped in childhood giggles, others twinkling like diyas on Diwali nights, and a few scented with the misty fragrance of spontaneous getaways to the hills.

But among them all — from my childhood days to this golden phase of life — my favorite holiday has always been Durga Puja.

It is a grand celebration of strength, devotion, artistry, and togetherness that pulses through the very heart of Bengal.

The Festival of Vibrance and Devotion

Durga Puja is not merely a religious festival — it is an emotion, a living, breathing celebration of life itself.

Having lived in Kolkata, the cultural heart of India, I’ve witnessed the city transform every year into a vibrant painting — with streets lit up like galaxies, majestic pandals rising like open-air museums, and the rhythmic beat of dhak drums echoing like a heartbeat of joy through every alley.

I still recall my childhood when this festival meant new clothes, school holidays, and sweet delicacies that melted in the mouth like dreams — sandesh, rasgulla, and those special home-cooked malpuas that only mothers could perfect.

My mother’s smile would shine a little brighter during these days, her saree a bit more elegant, and our home warmer — as if the goddess herself had entered to bless us with laughter and light.

A Cultural Extravaganza

What makes Durga Puja my favorite isn’t just nostalgia — it’s the breathtaking blend of art, culture, and spirituality that it embodies.

Artists spend months sculpting Maa Durga’s idol — each expression, each curve of clay infused with devotion. The pandals are not mere tents; they are awe-inspiring works of imagination.

Some mimic ancient temples, others echo royal palaces, and many reflect contemporary themes with powerful social messages.

Especially in Kolkata, creativity overflows. Even now, I roam the city with my camera and notebook, capturing fleeting moments and turning them into stories.

I marvel at the elderly couple dancing during Dhunuchi Naach, the little boy offering pushpanjali with wide-eyed wonder, or the young artists painting divine faces with strokes born from the soul.

Togetherness in the Air

What truly sets this festival apart is its power to dissolve barriers. Strangers become friends. Neighborhoods become families.

You see people of all ages, faiths, and backgrounds coming together — laughing, praying, dancing, and sharing meals in the spirit of unity.

Even in my post-retirement life, Durga Puja feels like a soulful reunion. I meet old friends, smile at new ones, and feel wrapped in the warm spirit of belonging.

My granddaughter loves dressing up and joining me on these pandal-hopping adventures — and watching the wonder in her eyes feels like reliving my own childhood all over again.

Lessons from the Goddess

At the heart of this holiday is the powerful legend of good triumphing over evil, as Maa Durga slays the demon Mahishasura.

But beyond the myth lies a deeper message — of inner strength, of resilience, and the divine feminine energy that dwells within us all.

Every time I stand before her idol, I feel a silent dialogue between the goddess and my soul.

Her ten arms — holding weapons and lotus flowers — whisper, “Balance power with peace, courage with compassion.” And perhaps, that’s the wisdom we all need on this journey called life.

A Holiday That Stays in the Heart

Dear friends, while I do enjoy the serenity of Diwali, the color splash of Holi, and even the hopeful laughter of New Year’s Eve — it is Durga Puja that forever holds a sacred space in my heart.

It is not just my favorite holiday. It is a celebration that revives my spirit, connects me to my roots, inspires my creativity, and fills my heart with gratitude — for life, for love, and for the divine strength that guides us through all seasons.

And now I ask you — what holiday makes your heart dance a little faster, your smile stretch a little wider, and your memories glow a little brighter?

With love and festive cheer,
Mr. Verma
🌐 retiredkalam.com

Categories: infotainment

Tags: #Festival, #Spirituality, #Travel, dailyprompt, dailyprompt-1924, featured, hinduism, India