Dhaka, Oct. 15 -- From the sound of devotional prayers echoing through temples to vibrant preparations at puja mandaps, Bangladesh is gearing up for Durga Puja, its biggest Hindu festival, with fervour and enthusiasm, as devotees prepare to welcome Goddess Durga and immerse themselves in days of worship, tradition and family reunions.

With 33,851 pujas scheduled across the country this year, the celebrations are set to bring communities together, with many people travelling from bustling cities to their hometowns and villages to mark the auspicious occasion with their loved ones.

The festivities will begin on Friday with Maha Shashthi, setting the stage for a five-day celebration filled with devotion and traditional rituals across Bangl...