Mahalaya, the traditional start of Durga Puja, is being observed today, Sunday, with fervor across Bangladesh. The day marks the arrival of Goddess Durga through the ritual chanting of the Chandi path, signaling the beginning of the Devi Paksha (the period dedicated to the Goddess) and the countdown to Durga Puja.
On Mahalaya, temples across the country perform Chandi path at dawn, invoking Goddess Durga. Devotees also perform the Tarpan ritual on the banks of the Padma and other rivers, praying for the peace of their ancestors’ souls.
This year, Durga Puja will officially begin on September 28 with the Shashthi Puja. Goddess Durga’s arrival, symbolized by her ride on an elephant, is believed to bring a bountiful harvest, while her departure in a palanquin is thought to signal natural calamities and epidemics.
The full Durga Puja schedule includes Shashthi Puja on September 28, Maha Saptami on September 29, Maha Ashtami and Kumari Puja on September 30, and Vijayadashami and idol immersion on October 2.
According to the Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad, the number of Durga Puja pandals has increased to 33,355 this year, up from 32,236 last year. In Dhaka, 258 pandals will be set up, compared to 253 last year.
To celebrate Mahalaya, religious programs are being held across the country. In Dhaka, the Dhakeshwari National Temple will host a special Mahalaya ceremony at 6 am, featuring Chandi path and musical performances. Other prominent locations in the capital city are the Gulshan-Banani Sarbojanin Puja Mandap, Ramakrishna Mission, and Siddheshwari Puja Mandap will also host Chandi path, devotional music, and cultural programs.
As Mahalaya unfolds, anticipation for Durga Puja grows, with devotees eagerly awaiting the Goddess’s arrival.
