At Nandi Bari in Medinipur town, the worship of Goddess Lakshmi has been performed for nearly 420 years. Originating in the zamindari era, this sacred ritual continues to this day with the same devotion, discipline, and reverence. The Kojagari Lakshmi Puja at Nandi Bari is not just a religious ceremony—it is a proud symbol of our family’s heritage, culture, and deep spiritual faith.
**The Silence After Vijaya Dashami:**
After the farewell of Goddess Durga, the revered Dashabhuja Mother, the Chandimandap and the traditional Atchala of Nandi Bari fall into a quiet stillness. Yet, in the hearts of devotees, her presence and blessings continue to linger.
**The Arrival of the Goddess on Kojagari Purnima:**
On the sacred night of Kojagari Purnima, the Goddess returns—this time in the form of Lakshmi. At Nandi Bari, the Lakshmi Puja follows the structural continuity of the Durga idol, symbolizing different manifestations of the same Adyashakti.
**The Unique Form of the Goddess:**
One of the distinctive features of this puja is the appearance of Goddess Lakshmi seated upon a grey elephant, holding delicate lotus flowers in both hands.
**Traditional Rituals:**
During the worship, offerings such as garments, sweets, fruits, flowers, incense, and sacred dhuna are presented to the Goddess. The sacred Vishnu Shila (Raghunath Jiu) is brought from the Radha Madhab Temple and placed beside the Goddess on the same altar, symbolizing the divine union of Vishnu and Lakshmi.
**Pushpanjali and Immersion:**
After the puja, devotees offer pushpanjali and the traditional dadhikarma bhog is presented to the Goddess. Later, the ceremonial kalash (ghat) is immersed in the sacred pond of Nandi Bari, and the idol is taken to the Kansabati River ghat for the final immersion.
🙏 Thus, for centuries, the Kojagari Lakshmi Puja at Nandi Bari continues to be celebrated with unwavering devotion, rich tradition, and profound spirituality.
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