In the region of Bengal, many Hindus regularly honor Kali, an earth goddess of fearsome appearance and a symbol of fertility. During the year, believers conduct daily pujas (devotional prayers) to Kali, but one particular new-moon day of the year is set aside for a special Kali Puja. Unlike with other festivals, believers will worship Kali at night. Typically, people gather around elaborate pandals (shrines) to the goddess around 9 p.m. Priests will then lead a ceremony, which may involve prayers and sacrifices of animals such as goats, sheep, or buffaloes. Worship may continue until as late as 1 a.m. or 2 a.m. Discuss