- By Aditi Priya Singh
- Sun, 21 Sep 2025 05:01 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Why Brothel Soil Used To Make Maa Durga idol: As Shardiya Navratri draws near, devotees all throughout India get ready for the lavish celebration of Goddess Durga. The festival is characterised by exquisitely crafted idols of Maa Durga that are enthusiastically worshipped in homes and pandals. Using soil from brothels, called "Punya Maati" or "Nishiddho Pallis Maati" in Bengali, is one of the most unusual and unexpected customs associated with Durga idol-making. Devotees are frequently intrigued and have questions about this practice, which is particularly prevalent in West Bengal. Why would soil from these locations be revered in the construction of Maa Durga's divine idol?
The answer lies in deep-rooted spiritual beliefs, symbolism and age-old customs. According to tradition, the soil is collected with rituals and respect, and it symbolises acceptance, purity and equality in the eyes of the Goddess. For centuries, this tradition has been seen as a reminder that Maa Durga does not differentiate between people—she embraces everyone, even those society often looks down upon.
The Tradition of Collecting Sacred Brothel Soil
Artists in Kumartuli, Kolkata, start making idols using a mixture of clay, bamboo, straw and holy brothel soil. Before idol-making starts, this soil is gathered from a brothel's doorstep. It is thought to make the idol more spiritually complete and pure. Essentially beginning in the 19th century, this custom has been followed for 100–150 years.
Spiritual Belief Behind the Practice
It is believed that a man leaves his virtue, respect and purity at the door when he enters a brothel. As a result, the soil there is regarded as the most "pure" and "holy." Craftspeople believe that by using this soil, Maa Durga blesses everyone, even the underprivileged.
Symbolism of Equality
The tradition also reflects that Goddess Durga does not discriminate. Everyone has a place in her divine world, regardless of social status. It also dispels the stigma associated with sex workers by demonstrating that they are also human beings deserving of respect.
The Social and Cultural Message
This practice has a powerful social message in addition to its religious significance. It teaches that all people are equal before the Goddess and that spirituality transcends judgment. It serves as a reminder that Maa Durga is the all-encompassing mother who accepts everyone without exception.
A centuries-old custom with immense spiritual and cultural significance is the creation of Durga idols using soil from brothels. In its purest form, it represents inclusivity, equality, and purity. By adhering to this tradition, devotees serve as a reminder to themselves that the Goddess is a divine force that is universal and not limited to any particular segment of society.