Hatiya (Noakhali) Correspondent 

Amid tight security, the joyful days of the autumn Durga festival ended in  Hatiya.on.Thursday. 

  Devotees bid farewell to Goddess Durga in tears. After four days of worship, worship and joy, on Monday afternoon, the idol of the goddess was immersed in rivers and ponds in a colorful procession from various puja mandaps. 

At the immersion site, there was a wonderful blend of drums, flutes and conch shells. After the sindoor dance, the devotees bid farewell to their beloved goddess with tears in their eyes. The slogans of 'The coming year will come again' filled various areas of Hatia.

Devotees say that Goddess Durga is not just a religious symbol, she is a symbol of strength, courage and justice. Therefore, during the immersion, eyes get wet with emotion. From children and teenagers to men and women, everyone gathers and prays with tearful eyes, that the goddess will come again next year with new joy.

Durga Puja was held in about 33 temples in Hatia this year. There were strict security arrangements at the temples. However, the presence of people of all ages on the farewell day proved that Durga Puja is now not just a religious festival, but a socio-cultural one.

After the farewell, the statue was swept away by the waves of the river, leaving tears and memories of love in the hearts of the devotees.

Tapas Chandra Das, at the Kali Mandir in Sri Sri Municipality's Master Para, said that the cooperation of the administration, law enforcement agencies and local people in completing the Durga Puja peacefully was unique. There was a festive atmosphere in every pavilion, but there was a touch of sadness at the moment of farewell..

Lieutenant Shoaib Rafsan of the Hatia Navy Contingent said, "The Navy, Coast Guard, Police, Ansar BDP, and Village Police are working on the ground to ensure a smooth and peaceful Durga Puja in Hatia and across the country. Our goal is to maintain order at the puja mandap, prevent unpleasant incidents, and provide a festive atmosphere to people of all communities."

He further said that along with the local administration, the Navy has also intensified patrolling activities at the field level. A security cordon has been created especially in the puja mandap area so that everyone, regardless of religion or caste, can celebrate the festival with ease.

Leaders of the local Puja celebration committee said they are hopeful that they will be able to celebrate Durga Puja peacefully with the assurances of the Navy and the administration.