Durga Puja. the greatest and the most auspicious festival ot the Hindu community, begins throughout the country today reports BSS.

The five-day Durga Puja ot the shwadlya utsav' (autumn festival) symbolises the victoi y of good over evil. It also marks the return of the Goddess Durga (from heaven) to her father's home on earth.

Final touches -are being given to idols at Shakhart Bazar. Rayerbazar. Tantibazar and other areas while last minute work for the decora tion of the Puja niandaps are going otkin full swing.

Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad (BPUP). in a state ment Issued last week said the festival will be celebrated throughout the country in a befitting, manner. According to BPUP sources Durga Puja will be celebrated in about 100

places or spots in the capital, while its number throughout the country will be between 10.000 and 12,000.

Mahaastami and Mahanav-ami will be celebrated on October 12 and 13 respectively. With the Immersion of the images of Goddess Durga on the "Ltashamf the last day of the festival, the preparations for months for this annual festivity will come to an end.