Jamai Shashti
The land of West Bengal has been famous for history owing to its diversity in food and festivals. Bengalis are one of a kind when it comes to love of food. They have the largest number of festivals oriented with a single community. Being famous for the 4 day celebration of Durga Puja starting from Durga Shashti. The festivals of West Bengal are also the reason why the land is also known to have 'Baro mashe tero parbon', (13 festivals in 12 months). Out of which, one of the most intimate festivals of West Bengal is Jamai Sasthi.
History
This popular Kolkata festival first came into existence when once upon a time a greedy woman in all the food that is made in household and blamed the cat for it. The acat being a follower of Goddess Sashti, complain to her about it. To teach her lesson Goddess Shashti hid all her children. The woman got bewildered and praised the Goddess day and night to please her. Soon the Goddess was satisfied and decided to return all her children.
Since this day forward the ritual of worshipping Goddess Shashti first performed in order to protect ones children.
Modern Outtakes
Recent day practices of Jamai Shashti involves a mother inviting her daughter and son-in-law (Jamai) to their home and to pamper them and bestow their affection. A platter of grass, grains and five fruits are organised to welcome the son-in-law. The grass and grains are touched on the forehead along with some curd. A sumptuous lunch including fish, meat vegetables and desserts are prepared for the son-in-law and the day is spent wholeheartedly.
Significance
This ritual of Jamai Shashti is a symbolic practice to strengthen the bonds between family members. The entire family gathers together on this occasion to experiences joy in an otherwise exhausting day-to-day schedule. The festivals of West Bengal are the deep rooted emotions that are passed down by their ancestors. These kinds of Kolkata festival are considered important and auspicious part of the Bengali culture.
Keywords : Jamai Shashti, Kolkata festival, festivals of West Bengal