Dol Jatra 2025

According to the myth, on this day, Lord Krishna expressed his affection for Radha. Hence, people celebrate the reunion of Krishna and Radha by parading their decorated idols in a swinging palanquin. Coloured powder or "Abir" (as it's known in Bengal, Assam, and Bihar) is smeared on the idols of Krishna and Radha while the chants of "Hari Bol" keep the procession lively.

How is Dol Purnima Celebrated

Milk items are prepared, including home-made butter, cream, and panchamrit, and are offered to people belonging to every class of the society. For Bengalis, the festival is all the more important because it marks the birthday of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu—the popular and revered Vaishnavi Saint who brought modern "sankartina" to Odisha and Bengal.

The first day of Dol Jatra is known as "gondh". As per mythological texts, on this day, Lord Krishna prepares to visit Ghunucha's place (one of the wives of Krishna). Devotees indulge in a bonfire in front of the "kirtan ghar" or prayer house. The idol of Krishna is then carried around the bonfire. Customary rituals are performed in the prayer house.

The second day is known asBhor-Deul or Dol. It's similar to Holi where people indulge in smearing colours on each other. Throwing water balloons, smearing Abir", or using "pichkaris" to spray coloured water is common. However, this day is best known for championing the spirit of unity. Though it's predominantly a Hindu festival, people belonging from other religions too can participate in Dol. Sweets, especially Rasgullas are prepared in most households. Visiting relatives' or friends' house is a customary tradition that's followed on this day. The younger lot pay respect to the elders by placing a pinch of "abir" or coloured powder in front of their feet. In return, elders bless them with prosperity and happiness.

The third day of Dol Jatra is similar to that of the second day. The fourth day of Dol is called Sueri. It's believed that on this day Lord Krishna goes back to his house from Ghunucha's place. A procession marking the return of Lord Krishna is arranged with hundreds of devotees participating in what amrks the end of the festival. People throw coloured powders on one another s celebrations galore.

The festival is seen as a symbol of unity and happiness. Celebrated in the eastern and north-eastern states of India, Dol Jatra remains as a popular festival among Bengalis.

A good credit score can help you secure lower interest rates on loans and credit cards.

Get Free Credit Score