Photo story · Culture
Vel Vel: A Celebration of Faith
Vel Vel in Bandel: A Celebration of Faith Vel Vel has its roots in Hindu mythology and is associated with Lord Murugan, also known as Kartikeya, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and the younger brother of Lord Ganesha. In South In...
- By Arpith Sinha
- Bandel
- Apr 2026 – May 2026
- 11 frames
The Sprit Behind the Celebrations
Vel Vel is a celebration of faith, devotion, and cultural tradition. This photo story captures the vibrant atmosphere of the festival through photographs, highlighting its rituals, people, expressions, and cultural significance. Each photograph tells a story of belief, unity, and devotion, offering a glimpse into the spirit of this traditional celebration.
Vel Vel in Bandel: A Celebration of Faith Vel Vel has its roots in Hindu mythology and is associated with Lord Murugan, also known as Kartikeya, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and the younger brother of Lord Ganesha. In South India, Lord Murugan is worshipped as the God of War. His worship is also deeply rooted in countries such as Malaysia, Singapore and Sri Lanka, where large Tamil communities have settled. The word 'Vel' refers to the divine spear gifted to Lord Murugan by Goddess Parvati to fight evil forces. This sacred symbol represents courage, strength and protection. The festival in Bandel was celebrated on 6 April, during the period of Chaitra Navratri. Despite the summer heat and unexpected rainfall, devotees gathered to celebrate their faith and traditions. The occasion also falls close to Poila Boishakh, the Bengali New Year. The Journey to Vel Vel As soon as you step out of Bandel railway station, you can sense that something special is happening. Photographers and devotees arrive from different places to witness the celebration. From the station, visitors can take a rickshaw or toto to Ulaichandi Tala, home to the famous Sri Sri Ulaichandi Mata Thakurani Temple, where the festival's activities begin. Reaching the venue by 10 AM is advisable, as local vehicles are restricted during the festival. Otherwise, visitors may have to walk from the station. On my way from the station, I noticed several devotees preparing for the rituals. Among them were individuals observing fasts and getting ready for the celebration. Their family members, relatives and friends walked alongside them, encouraging and supporting them throughout the journey. Their devotion, determination and togetherness reflected the true spirit of Vel Vel.
- Photographer
- Arpith Sinha
- Project type
- Culture
- Topic
- Documenting the cultural heritage, religious tradition rituals, and vibrant celebrations of the Vel Vel Festival in Kolkata
- Approach
- Evidence
- Location
- Bandel
- Shot
- Apr 2026 – May 2026
SRI SRI Ulaichandi Mata Thakurani Mondir at Bandel.
As soon as I left the station and got into an auto-rickshaw, I noticed several devotees on their way to the festival. Usually, one person from each group observes a fast and prepares to take part in the various rituals. Their family members, relatives and friends walk alongside them, encouraging and supporting them throughout the journey so that they can continue without stopping.
Devotees and Spectators Arriving at Ulaichandi Mata to watch Vel Vel.
Under the scorching sun of Bandel, every beat of the dhak and drum fills the devotees with an extraordinary devotion and fervor.
Where faith, tradition, and devotion come alive in the vibrant spirit of Vel Vel.
Vel Pierced Through Their Cheeks – Vel Vel in Bande
Prayer Ceremony inside Sri Sri Olaichandi Mata Thakurani Mondir at Bandel.
Faith, trance, and sacred rhythm — chanting Vetrivel Muruganukku Haroharohara
Sacred vows, peacock feathers, and deep-rooted traditions at the Vel Vel celebrations.
Firewalking Being Performed By a Female Devotee.
After undergoing the piercing rituals, all the devotees proceed towards Shitala Temple. There, a large fire pit filled with burning charcoal is prepared as part of the festival's traditional rituals. One of the most challenging moments of the celebration is when devotees walk barefoot over the burning charcoal. By this stage, many of them are physically exhausted, having pushed themselves beyond their usual limits. Yet, driven by their deep faith and devotion, they continue moving forward without giving up.
Faith Beyond Pain: Surrendering body and soul to Murugan. A devotee is gently relieved of his piercing at the culmination of the Vel festival.
The rituals are considered complete only after the firewalking ceremony. Following this, the devotees are assisted in removing the objects used for piercing. They then offer their prayers at Shitala Temple, expressing their gratitude and devotion. With this final prayer, the Vel Vel Festival comes to an end, marking the conclusion of a celebration deeply rooted in faith, sacrifice and tradition.
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