Dhaka, Sep 21 (V7N) – Today is Mahalaya, marking the symbolic arrival of Goddess Durga and the beginning of Devi Paksha. With the first light of dawn on Sunday, the Chandipath echoed across temples and ghats across the country, inviting the goddess to descend to earth and destroy all evil.

Mahalaya also signifies the end of Pitru Paksha. On this day, followers of Sanatan Dharma perform tarpan rituals to honor their ancestors and pray for the well-being of departed souls. Religious ceremonies and rituals are being held in temples and puja mandaps nationwide to celebrate the occasion.

According to mythology, on Mahalaya, Goddess Durga was entrusted with the divine responsibility of slaying the demon king Mahishasura, who had become invincible through a boon and drove the gods from heaven. Durga’s arrival symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.

This year, the goddess is believed to arrive riding a horse or elephant, which devotees interpret as a sign of happiness and peace spreading across the world.

Preparations for Durga Puja will continue over the next six days, with the main rituals beginning on Shasthi (Sept 28) and concluding with Dashami immersion (Oct 2).

Nationwide, 33,576 mandaps will host Durga Puja celebrations this year. Authorities have assured that strict security measures are in place to ensure peaceful festivities.

END/SMA/AJ