Mahalaya, a sacred occasion, invites Hindus to embark on a profound spiritual journey and seek the divine blessings of Goddess Durga. This significant day heralds the arrival of the new moon, occurring precisely a week before the grand festivities of Durga Puja. Mahalaya carries immense significance in Hindu traditions, especially among the Bengali community, as it signifies the commencement of Devi Paksha, a two-week period devoted to the veneration of Goddess Durga. This year, Mahalaya is on October 14th (i.e. today).
The Commencement of Festivities
This day officially kicks off the preparations and jubilations for Durga Puja, a festival celebrated with majestic processions, intricate decorations, cultural programs, and age-old rituals.
Honoring Ancestors and Welcoming Devi Paksha
Mahalaya also serves as the poignant conclusion of Pitru Paksha, a 16-day period during which Hindus pay heartfelt homage to their ancestors. It immediately ushers in Devi Paksha, a nine-day span dedicated to the worship of the divine Goddess Durga.
Traditions of Tarpan Rituals
In Eastern India, a cherished Mahalaya tradition involves the performance of tarpan rituals in the sacred waters of the Ganges River. Tarpan, a ritual of offering water and symbolic items to honor deceased ancestors, is believed to facilitate their peaceful journey into the afterlife.
A Day of Reflection and Celebration
In essence, Mahalaya stands as a day to honor both the living and the departed. It is a moment to contemplate the connections shared with our forebears and seek their benevolent blessings. Simultaneously, it serves as the vibrant prologue to Durga Puja, a festival venerating the profound power and strength of Goddess Durga.
The Resonance of “Mahishasura Mardini”
Among the most iconic facets of Mahalaya is the radio broadcast of “Mahishasura Mardini,” a recitation of verses from the sacred text Devi Mahatmya, skillfully intertwined with soul-stirring music. This revered broadcast, an enduring tradition since 1931, is ardently anticipated by millions. Narrated and sung by the venerable Birendra Krishna Bhadra, it symbolizes the prelude to the festive season. Bengalis worldwide eagerly rise early in the morning to listen to Birendra Krishna Bhadra’s poetic invocation.
