On the eve of Mahasaptami, Phulpati processions (पूलपाती शोभायात्रा) are being held in the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (Darjeeling Hills) and the Siliguri, Terai-Dooars areas with enthusiasm and great religious fervour. The Nepali-speaking Gorkha community especially celebrates Phulpati traditionally.
Thousands of people, wearing traditional dresses, took part in the procession, chanting Maata Durga bhajans and slogans. On this occasion, Devi Durga’s Doli (Palki), along with other Gods’ and Goddesses’ tableaux (jhankies), was displayed in the procession.
Various religious, social, and cultural organizations, including Buddhists, took part in the procession. In the hills of Darjeeling, Kurseong, and Mirik, large processions were held.
Similarly, in the plains of Siliguri, Naxalbari, and Bagdogra, big processions were held. In the evening, hundreds of people thronged the pandals to seek the blessings of Devi Durga. With devotional music and dance, eye-catching lighting, and beautiful decorations, the atmosphere has turned extremely delightful.