The observance of Mana Chaturthi takes place during Ashwin Shukla Paksha Chaturthi, which is the fourth day of the waxing phase of the moon in the Ashwin month. This timing situates the festival within the broader context of Navratri, a nine-night festival dedicated to the worship of the goddess Durga in her various forms, culminating in the grand celebration of Durga Puja.
During Mana Chaturthi, devotees engage in various rituals and practices to honor the goddess. These may include fasting, special prayers, and offerings to the deity. The rituals performed on this day are believed to invoke the blessings of the goddess for prosperity, health, and protection from evil forces. The significance of this day is heightened by its proximity to the grand celebrations of Durga Puja, making it a spiritually charged period for devotees.
In Bengal, Odisha, and other Eastern states, the cultural fabric during this period is rich with traditional music, dance, and religious activities, creating a festive atmosphere that permeates the community. The celebrations are marked by the construction of elaborate pandals (temporary structures) where beautifully crafted idols of Durga and other deities are installed for worship. The devotion and artistic expressions seen in these pandals reflect the deep cultural and religious significance of the period.
Mana Chaturthi thus serves as an important prelude to the more extensive Durga Puja festivities, setting the tone for the days of worship and celebration that follow. It underscores the deep-rooted traditions and cultural unity of the regions where it is observed, highlighting the collective reverence for the divine feminine and the rich tapestry of rituals that define this time of the year.