Dhunuchi are typical earthen pots filled with burning coconut husks and fragrant incense or dhuno. Burning the incense in the pot is one of the many rituals followed during Durga Puja. The incense is believed to purify the air and keep insects at bay. It is not known how the dhunuchi naach originated but it has been a long tradition of men dancing with the burning clay pots in their hands. The more brave carry multiple pots, even place them on their forehead, etc. Gradually, women too joined the bandwagon. Today, the dhunuchi naach. According to Bengali tradition, Goddess Durga and her children are considered part of one's own family. The dhunuchi naach before the idol is a mark of respect and sharing one's joy with the goddess.
Dugga Dugga
These chants 'Dugga Dugga' is a colloquial way of saying 'Durga Durga' which translates to 'let good prevail over evil or let all the worries vanish your way'. When someone wishes 'Dugga Dugga' they essentially want you to be well and be free of any evil or worry. In Bengali households, you will often find grandmothers and mothers usually say this to their children when the latter embark on a journey. Goddess Durga is believed to be the epitome of everything that is good and holds power to protect one from all that is bad. Saying the words 'Dugga Dugga' is considered auspicious.
