Kolkata:
In our biggest celebration of the Mother Goddess, women have never been allowed as priests. This tradition is now being challenged by four Kolkata housewives who have taken training to become priests.
Sampa Rai, a housewife says, '"We have been watching for years. Only men are appointed purohits in the puja. We thought maybe we should learn the rituals as well".
Somnath Chatopaddhyaya, a teacher and a priest adds, "The religious texts do not say anywhere that women cannot conduct pujas. I am training them so that they can get a chance some day".
For these women, excelling in the classroom is one thing. The larger test will unfold as they work towards being accepted in the community.