Bankura's Maa Sankat Tarini Puja: Giant Laddus and Century-Old Tradition Draw Devotees

• Maa Sankat Tarini Puja in Bhutshahar village, Bankura, is celebrated on Magh Chaturdashi with unique gigantic laddus, locally called 'Pahar' (mountain), weighing over two kilograms.
• The puja, ongoing for nearly 150 years, attracts devotees from far and wide, who flock with wishes and participate in a large fair.
• The tradition originated when Gurudayal Singh brought the sacred pot (ghat) of Maa Sankat Tarini from Bishnupur during the Malla kings' era.
• Villagers believe the puja helps resolve family crises and disputes, continuing a powerful symbol of faith and local tradition without a permanent idol or concrete temple.
• This unique folk puja, with its massive laddus and ancient history, has become a distinct identity of Bankura district's cultural heritage.