Why Is Sindoor Khela Celebrated? The Significance Behind the Ritual Before Maa Durga’s Farewell on Vijayadashami
Sindoor Khela is a special tradition that Bengali women eagerly look forward to on Vijayadashami, the final day of Durga Puja. Sindoor (vermilion) is regarded as a symbol of Brahma. According to Hindu religious beliefs, Brahma removes life’s sorrows and fills it with happiness. Therefore, sindoor is also considered a symbol of good fortune and prosperity.
Vijayadashami marks the time when Maa Durga returns to Mount Kailash, leaving devotees emotional as they bid farewell to the Goddess. For Bengalis, Durga Puja is not merely a festival but also a celebration deeply rooted in emotion, devotion and cultural identity. It is one of the most eagerly awaited occasions of the year.
On Vijayadashami, the festival comes to an end amid the rhythmic beats of traditional dhak drums, ululation and Sindoor Khela. People exchange Vijayadashami greetings and sweets before beginning another year-long wait for Maa Durga’s return.
In Bengali Hindu tradition, sindoor is associated with Brahma and is believed to symbolise blessings and good fortune. According to certain religious beliefs, applying sindoor along the parting of the hair is associated with receiving divine blessings. Many people believe that this faith contributed to the tradition of Sindoor Khela on Vijayadashami.
Sindoor is also regarded as a symbol of marital happiness and prosperity.
According to some religious accounts, references to the Gopis playing with sindoor while observing the Katyayani Vrat and praying for the well-being of Lord Krishna are associated with this tradition.
On Vijayadashami, married women first perform Devi Baran, a ritual in which they bid farewell to Maa Durga with traditional offerings. They apply sindoor to the Goddess’s forehead and seek her blessings. Afterwards, they apply vermilion to one another’s foreheads and the parting of their hair.
This ritual is considered a symbol of marital happiness, good fortune and well-being. Through Sindoor Khela, women exchange affection, goodwill and blessings while praying to Maa Durga for peace, happiness and prosperity in their families.
For devotees, Sindoor Khela is both a joyful celebration and an emotional farewell to the Goddess, with the hope of welcoming her back the following year.
