Mahalaya is being observed today, marking the traditional invocation of Goddess Durga and heralding the arrival of Durga Puja, Bengal’s biggest annual festival.
Akashvani correspondent reports that the day marks the culmination of Pitru Paksha, the fortnight dedicated to paying homage to departed ancestors, and the beginning of Devi Paksha, according to traditional Hindu belief.
Devotees across the state are offering tarpan on the banks of rivers and other water bodies, praying for the peace of their ancestors’ souls.
Mahalaya is also synonymous with the timeless radio programme Mahishasuramardini, broadcast by Akashvani in the early hours of the day.
The programme, featuring Sanskrit chants, devotional songs and narration by Birendra Krishna Bhadra, has remained an integral part of Bengal’s cultural heritage for generations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a social media message, said We seek the blessings of Maa Durga.’
May the blessings fill our society with happiness, compassion and hope. May there be peace and prosperity all around. With the invocation of Goddess Durga, the countdown to Durga Puja begins, filling the air with devotion, anticipation and festive spirit.