The tempo of life changes perceptibly in every family, in markets, in Mata s temples, long before the festival commences. In homes, the corner or room reserved for puja becomes the scene of intense preparation.
Housewives draw designs and emblems with rice flour, turmeric powder-and vermilion.
Each of the motifs symbolizes abundance and represents hope for the future. The eagerly awaited first day of the festival witnesses a flurry of ritualistic activity. On a small platform of fresh earth in front of the idol of the Mother Goddess, all the things collected for the puja are placed and the lamp is lit. As evening falls, people gather around the sacred flame that is constantly fed with ghee or oil, and soon, mellow voices singing bhajans can be heard from home after home. It is also the occasion for all artisans to lay down their tools before the goddess and seek her benediction upon their trade.