As the festive season draws near, the spirit of Durga Puja takes over with the celebration of Mahalaya, marking Goddess Durga’s descent to Earth after her victory over the demon Mahishasura. This day, rich in religious and spiritual significance, serves as a reminder of the power of truth, courage, and the universal triumph of good over evil.
Mahalaya signifies the beginning of Devi Paksha and the end of Pitri Paksha, a 16-day period of mourning during which people offer food and water to honour their ancestors. Despite its solemn roots, Mahalaya is a joyous occasion for Bengalis, as it marks the Goddess’s official journey from Mount Kailash, where she resides with Lord Shiva, to her maternal home on Earth. The arrival of autumn, with its crisp air, fills the atmosphere with a festive “pujo-pujo” feeling.
According to tradition, Goddess Durga embarks on this week-long journey with her children, Ganesh, Kartik, Lakshmi, and Saraswati, traveling in a vehicle of her choice, which could be a palanquin, boat, elephant, or horse.
Mahalaya is celebrated about seven days before Durga Puja. In the early hours of the morning, Bengali households customarily listen to Mahishasura Mardini, a collection of hymns and mantras famously voiced by Birendra Krishna Bhadra. The chants, particularly “Jago Tumi Jago” (Awaken, oh Goddess!), invoke Durga to rise and bless her devotees.
Additionally, many perform the ritual of Pitri Tarpan, offering prayers and pind-daan to the deceased at riverbanks and holy sites.
This year, the much-anticipated Mahalaya Prabhat Pheri was organised in Sector 78, on 2 October, starting and ending at the CNPC Durga Bari. Devotees and enthusiasts participated in a procession that toured the area, accompanied by the stirring hymns of Birendra Krishna Bhadra.
Dressed in traditional attire, women in white sarees with red borders, men in white kurtas and pyjamas/ dhotis, the participants created a scene steeped in timeless tradition.
Residents of nearby societies cheered as the entourage passed, witnessing this cherished custom.
The event concluded with a delectable feast of kochuris, aloor dum, and bonde, delighting the participants after their vibrant morning march.
