Jagaddhatri idol of the Tamtultala Barowari in Bhadreswar, Hooghly, is known affectionately as Buri Ma (the Old Mother). In 2026, it marks the 234th year of this worship. Bhadreswar Tamtultala Barowari Jagadhatri Puja 2026 date is November 18.
Over the centuries, countless unique customs have become
associated with this festival. For instance, on Dashami, before the immersion
of the idol, there is a tradition where men, dressed in sarees, perform the
ritual of bidding farewell to the Goddess (Devi Boron). Another much-discussed
ritual is that of devotees offering blood from their own chests.
When people hear of Buri Ma, many immediately think of the
famous Buri Ma of Krishnanagar. But the Jagaddhatri of Tamtultala in Bhadreswar
is no less powerful or awakened. It is said that devotees travel even from
places like Bongaon and Jhargram to express their heartfelt wishes before her.
When their desires are fulfilled, they return again—with tears of devotion in
their eyes.
Visitors come running
from far and wide. Some offer daṇḍi (a vow performed by lying prostrate on the
ground), while others give blood from their chests. They smear their chest
blood on bel leaves and plead for those leaves to be placed at the feet of the
Goddess. And no, these sacrifices never go in vain. It is said that she never
turns away a devotee. Such is Buri Ma, the revered deity of Chandannagar.
The practice of offering blood and making vows was not an
ancient tradition here. It was, in fact, introduced later—by the ordinary local
people themselves.