Dhaka, Sep 27 (V7N) – Today marks Mahapanchami Tithi, signaling the end of the countdown to the autumn Durga Puja. With nightfall, Mahasashti begins, when Goddess Durga will be ceremonially seated. The Kalpa Arambha of the Goddess will take place on Saturday.

Tomorrow, on Mahasashti, the main rituals of the festival will formally begin with Akalbodhan, Adhivas, and Shasthi Puja of Durgatinashini.

According to the Sanatan scriptures, this year Goddess Durga arrives riding a horse, which symbolizes an auspicious journey and abundance of harvest. She will return on a dola (palanquin).

Across the country, preparations are in full swing to welcome the Goddess. Most mandaps have completed the idol-making work, with final touches of paint and cotton decoration underway. Some mandaps are finishing the coloring process, while others are still giving shape to the divine form.

This year, Durga Puja will be celebrated in 259 mandaps in Dhaka city and across 33,355 mandaps nationwide. Security measures have been tightened around mandaps to ensure peaceful festivities.

END/SMA/AJ