look news india
There are countless customs and rituals hidden in Indian Sanatan culture and various regional traditions, which have great importance from both religious, scientific and spiritual points of view. When it comes to the cultural heritage of West Bengal and its biggest festivals. Durga Puja (Durga Puja 2026) When Ki comes, along with the thunder of drums and the sound of conch shells, another very special sound attracts everyone’s attention. That is the sound made by Bengali women ‘Ulu Dhwani’. In Bengal, be it Durga Puja, someone’s wedding, house warming or any other auspicious occasion, this loud and unique sound made by women symbolizes that some auspicious work is about to begin. Most people consider this sound as just a tradition, but very few people are aware of the mystery and scientific-spiritual importance behind it. Let us know in detail why Bengali women make Ulu sound on every auspicious occasion and what is the real secret behind it.
What is ‘Ulu Sound’ and how is this unique sound made?
‘Ulu sound’ is a type of oral tradition, also known as ‘ululation’, in many ancient cultures around the world. In Bengal, whenever there is any religious festival, worship or happy occasion, women move their tongue very fast left and right and make a resonating loud sound from the mouth, which is called Ulu sound.
According to traditional beliefs, this sound is considered a medium of victory, joy, celebration and driving away all types of negative energy from the environment. In Bengali culture it is believed that without this sound any auspicious work or religious ritual remains incomplete. When Ulu sound is echoed along with conch shells and bells during the worship of Maa Durga in the pandals, the entire atmosphere is filled with devotion and energy.
Ulu Sound: The biggest symbol of good luck and positive energy
In the folk culture of Bengal, it is believed that when women make Ulu sound, they transmit positivity and good wishes to the universe through it. This sound is not just a sound, but it is a unique way of wishing well for the home, family and society.
When any new work is started, first of all this sound is made by going to the temple or place of worship and invoking Maa Durga. After this, this sound also echoes at the place where the main ritual is taking place. It is believed that the vibrations of this sound purify the entire surrounding environment and a new energy is transmitted within all the people present there.
Ulu sound protects from evil eye and negative powers
In Sanatan tradition, many measures are taken to avoid the evil eye and negative powers. In Bengali society, Ulu sound is considered a very powerful protective shield. According to ancient beliefs, the special frequency of this sound does not allow any kind of evil eye, obstacle or negative energy to enter the house and family members.
This is the reason why at the time of marriage, when the bride and groom enter, or when a new daughter-in-law enters the house for the first time, the Ulu sound is made to protect that special moment from the evil eye. This sound ensures that the beginning of the new journey is completely safe and auspicious.
Social and cultural importance of this tradition started by women
There is also a definite and disciplined tradition of making Ulu sound. On any auspicious occasion this sound is usually initiated by the oldest and respected woman of the family or society. When she starts it with her voice, immediately other women present with her also join in this sound by clicking their tongues in unison.
This scene appears to be a display of collective unity and strength. It seems as if all the women together are praying to Mother Shakti for the happiness, prosperity and longevity of their family. During Durga Puja, when rituals like Sindoor Khela or Dhunuchi dance take place in the pandals, then the echo of Ulu sound increases the joy of this holy festival manifold. Like the conch sound, it is considered extremely sacred and fruitful.