Kali Puja, also known as Shyama Puja or Mahanisha Puja, is a Hindu festival dedicated to the goddess Kali, and celebrated especially in West Bengal, Odisha, and Assam. The festival falls on Amavasya Tithi (new moon day), in the month of Kartik according to the traditional Hindu calendar. Kali Puja 2017 is celebrated on October 19. Goddess Kali symbolizes shakti (strength), seen as divine protector, and bestows moksha (liberation). Goddess Kali is worshiped in the late night. It is believed that she will destroy all evils in human beings and outside world.