The holy soil of Beshyalaya

There are many beliefs and deep social symbolism behind the tradition of bringing soil from a brothel for Durga Puja, which is considered essential for filling the idol.

Holy soil or holy soil

According to the first belief, people who go into prostitution, leave out their virtue and holiness before entering.

As a result, that virtue and honesty are mixed in the soil at the entrance of the brothel.

This soil is called 'Punya Mati', which is considered to be very holy for the idol of Maa Durga.

Apart from prostitution soil, soil is also brought from the banks of river Ganga. This clay gives the idol a divine and sacred form.

This soil alone is not enough for the strength and structure of the statue. It also includes manure, cow urine, and rice sticks in some areas.

This tradition is a medium to include women from the society in worship.

This proves that the divine power does not discriminate against anyone and Mata Durga accepts all walks of society.

Through this ritual, a message is given to the society that women from the outer premises of the society are also an integral part of worship.

According to the Vedas, women of nine classes named Navakanya are worshipped during Durga Puja.

Prostitution (prostitute) is also included in these nine classes.

So, this tradition is a way to honour those women, who have been overlooked in society.

This belief also has a mythical reason.

According to some beliefs, to protect prostitutes from the evil eye of demons like Mahishasur, Durga protected them.

So this is also the symbol of protection of Durga Maa.

How to collect

Traditionally, the soil is not taken by force, but is accepted with respect by a priest or sculptor begging from a prostitute.

When a prostitute voluntarily offers this soil, it is considered a blessing from the Goddess.

Hail Goddess Durga 🙏🏻🚩