Women select Gauri idols at Tulshibaug
Homes across the city are observing the three-day festival from Sept 17 to 19, with Gauri Avahan, the ceremonial welcoming of the goddess on Thursday, Gauri puja on Friday and immersion on Saturday.
At the doorstep, we perform a puja and welcome Gauri with offerings of water, milk, haldi, kumkum, flowers and akshata,” said Priya Singh , a resident of Bavdhan. It also reflects the enduring idea that prosperity is best enjoyed when shared with others,” said Sayali Kulkarni, a resident of Erandwane. They come craving this dish,” said Surbhi Bhagwat, a resident of NIBM Road.
Pune: From new saris and rangoli at the doorstep to plates of traditional food shared with guests, Gauri puja is adding an intimate note to Ganeshotsav celebrations in Pune. “Gauri is ceremonially welcomed into the home. Food is an integral part of these gatherings. “Through the welcoming of Gauri, households celebrate devotion, hospitality and women’s cultural participation. For many women, these gatherings are also a way of keeping family and community traditions alive. “We make the Konkani dish ghavan-ghatle during Gauri puja. Ghavan is a soft, thin rice-based preparation similar to a crepe, while ghatle is a sweet coconut-and-jaggery preparation served with it. Friends, colleagues and neighbours come over for lunch and participate in haldi-kumkum. You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Pune | Silver Rate in Pune | Bank Holidays in Pune | Public Holidays in Pune | Petrol Price in Pune | Diesel Price in Pune | CNG Price in Pune | LPG Price in Pune
Customs and Gatherings During the Festival
During the festival, some families engage in specific rituals to honor the goddess Gauri. A woman carrying a representation of Gauri may have her feet washed before entering the home, symbolizing respect for the goddess. Footprints are then created using kumkum (a red powder), turmeric, or rangoli (decorative patterns), marking Gauri’s entrance into the household. In certain traditions, milk is poured over these footprints prior to an aarti, which is a ritual involving the offering of a lit lamp and prayers.
Additionally, the festival fosters community among women through gatherings known as haldi-kumkum. These events focus on food, conversation, and the exchange of gifts. Married women participate by applying turmeric and kumkum to each other, sharing festive meals, and often giving return gifts such as small hampers filled with bangles, vermilion boxes, and combs.