What is Sandhi Puja? Meaning, tradition and BSS 2026 time

Why does Sandhi Puja last 48 traditional minutes?

The word sandhi refers to a junction or transition. In this context, it is the meeting point of two tithis: Ashtami and Navami. The traditional observance covers the last 24 minutes of Ashtami and the first 24 minutes of Navami.

That is why Sandhi Puja does not have one fixed clock time every year. Its timing follows the ritual calendar and may fall in the morning, afternoon, evening or night. For BSS in 2026, the organising team's published programme lists 7:26 AM on 19 October.

The story of Durga, Chanda and Munda

Sandhi Puja is traditionally connected with the episode in which the Goddess confronts Chanda and Munda. Durga manifests a fierce form, Chamunda, who defeats them. The name Chamunda is commonly understood through this victory over Chanda and Munda.

The ritual therefore marks more than a transition between two calendar days. It recalls a decisive moment of transformation and the power of the Goddess confronting destructive forces.

Why are 108 lamps and lotuses associated with Sandhi Puja?

Many Durga Puja traditions associate Sandhi Puja with offerings such as 108 lamps and 108 lotuses. Practices can differ between communities, organising committees and years.

The current BSS 2026 information confirms the Sandhi Puja time, but it does not publish a list of ritual materials or state whether visitors should bring flowers, lamps or other offerings. Visitors should follow the priest's and organising team's guidance at the venue.

BSS programme around Sandhi Puja on 19 October

If you are planning to stay beyond the morning observance, these are the confirmed BSS timings for the same day:

For the complete plan across 18 and 19 October, see the BSS Ashtami Puja visitor guide. The Pushpanjali guide, Bhog guide and Dhunuchi guide provide focused information for the other confirmed programmes.

How first-time visitors can attend respectfully

BSS welcomes everyone, including visitors who are not Bengali or Sylheti. If this is your first community Puja, the first-time Durga Puja guide explains what to expect without assuming prior familiarity with the rituals.

Venue in Hoodi, Bengaluru

The Occasion Bengaluru
Sri Devi Anugraha, Anup Layout,
Basi Reddy Garden, KR Puram Road,
Hoodi, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560048.

Use the current Google Maps route before travelling. The BSS site does not currently confirm parking capacity, metro distance or travel time. The Hoodi and Whitefield visitor guide collects the confirmed local information without making unsupported route claims.