Kali Puja, also known as Shyama Puja or Mahanisha Puja, is a festival dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali. This holiday is observed in India, predominantly in the state of West Bengal(WB). Celebrated on the new moon day of the Hindu month Kartik, Kali Puja coincides with the pan-Indian Lakshmi Puja day of Diwali - the festival of lights. The holiday recognises the goddess Kali, who represents the force of 'Time' and 'Change', denoting the destruction of evil.
Kali Puja is characterised by grand celebrations with large scale offerings and sacrifices, including sweets, rice, dal, fish, and meat, in honour of Goddess Kali. Houses and streets are lavishly decorated with lights, diyas (earthen lamps), flowers, and colorful rangoli, thereby creating a festive atmosphere. Alongside, traditional dance and music performances, dramas, recitals and fireworks punctuate the night sky marking the holiday.
Kali Puja serves a significant cultural and social purpose. It is a crucial event that binds the community together, by fostering harmonious relations among the participants. Further, Kali Puja underlines the victory of good over evil, and the power of truth. Apart from West Bengal, Kali Puja is also observed by some communities in Assam, Odisha, and Bangladesh. It is indeed one of the most important events marked on the Bengali Hindu calendar.