Shashthi: Bodhon, and the Puja Begins

Today is Shashthi, 16 October, and this evening is bodhon — the ritual awakening, when the covering comes off the idol's face and the goddess is formally welcomed. Kalparambho in the morning, bodhon, amontron and adhibas through the day.

Whatever has been happening in the streets for the last week, this is where the Puja actually starts.

The first proper evening

Shashthi night is busy but not yet impossible, and it has a particular quality — everyone is out, everyone is pleased, and nobody is tired yet. It is a better night than most people give it credit for.

What to wear tonight

Something good, but not the best thing. Save Ashtami's saree for Ashtami; tonight wants an outfit that looks considered and survives four hours on your feet.

• A Tussar or a light silk saree — dressed enough for the first night, light enough to walk in.
• A printed saree or georgette if you are covering distance.
• An Anarkali or a good salwar suit — no compromise at all on a first evening.
• For men, a cotton-silk kurta in a strong colour.

Five days from here

Saptami tomorrow, Ashtami on the 18th, Navami on the 19th, and Vijaya Dashami on the 20th. The six-day plan sets out which weight of saree belongs to which day, and the logic is simple: light on the walking days, the serious piece on Ashtami, cotton on Dashami.

One practical thing

Whatever you wear tonight will not be dry by tomorrow morning. October in Bengal is humid and a full evening out is a full evening out. Have tomorrow's outfit ready and aired — see the care guide on airing silk in shade rather than sun.

Everything for the week is at festive collection.