An idol of Durga, in Siliguri. The goddess is a manifestation of Shakti, embodying the power of women. AFP

A girl adorns a clay idol of Durga in Kolkata with traditional gold jewellery. AFP

Devotees gather in front of Durga puja pandal in Kolkata. The installations are masterpieces of creativity and context often highlighting social issues. AFP

A devotee holding a pot of holy smoke dances during the Durga Puja festival celebrations at a temporary shelter in Kolkata. AP

People gather in front of a puja pandal in Siliguri. Across the country the festival is carnival time for all Bengalis with spirituality sharing space comfortably with revellery. AFP

Ushaben Dave, 65, wearing a metal structure consisting of 1,151 oil lamps, prays during a ritual known as Aarti during the festival in Ahmedabad. Reuters

An artist in Kolkata walks out after giving finishing touches to a clay idol of Durga made in a style inspired by Chinese art. AFP

Women pray during the Durga Puja festival in Kolkata. AP

A Durga Puja pandal in Guwahati. PTI

A Kumari or virgin goddess being worshipped during the Durga Puja festivities in Agartala. PTI

An artist works on a clay idol of Goddess Durga at his workshop in Birbhum, West Bengal. PTI