Durga Puja begins Friday in 33,851 mandaps with tight security, extended holidays
Mir Afroz Zaman
The autumn Durga Puja, the Hindu community's largest religious festival, begins Friday across 33,851 mandaps nationwide—marking an increase of about 1,500 mandaps from last year. The five-day celebration runs through Vijaya Dashami on October 21.
To ensure tight security, the Ministry of Home Affairs has deployed over 2.12 million Ansar-VDP members alongside the Army, BGB, and Coast Guard. Authorities are also utilizing drones, helicopters, and enhanced cyber surveillance to prevent rumors and manage crowds.
Meanwhile, the government has extended the holiday by three days (October 20–22), giving government employees five consecutive days off when combined with the weekend.
Organizers and community leaders have welcomed the decision, which is expected to facilitate family gatherings and peaceful celebrations centered at key locations like the Dhakeshwari National Temple.
