Dhunachi

[2] The dhunachi has a flared shape and is held by a stem with a large cavity at the top, and is traditionally made of earthenware.

Every year, potters from the districts such as Nadia or Bankura produce dhunachis on mass scale before Durga Puja.

[5] The dhunachi is lit by placing burning coal at the bottom, which ignites a layer of slow-burning coconut husk, on which incense (usually resin such as Indian frankincense) is sprinkled.

During Durga Puja in eastern India, it is common to have dhunuchi nritya, or a frenzied dance with the censer, to the accompaniment of dhak playing.

Many puja traditions also organise contests for the best dance, where some performers may go with as many as three dhunuchis - the third one held between the teeth.