Maha Ashtami, a principal day of the Sharadiya Durga Puja festival, was observed with profound religious fervor across 17 puja mandaps in Kalapara, Patuakhali, on Monday (October 19, 2026). The atmosphere buzzed with the traditional sounds of conch shells, ululation, and the beat of dhak.

Temples hosted Maha Ashtami Kalparambha and Bihit Puja in the morning, where fasting devotees worshipped Goddess Durga and offered anjali praying for the destruction of demonic forces and global peace. Sandhi Puja was also marked by the offering of 108 lotus flowers and 108 lamps, with devotees seeking liberation from sins and the fulfillment of their heartfelt wishes, trusting that Goddess Durga removes all adversities.