Kolkata, October 10 (Daily Kiran) : Mahalaya Amavasya, also known as Pitru Visarjan Amavasya, is being observed today in Kolkata. The auspicious period began on October 9 at 9:35 PM and will conclude on October 10 at 9:19 PM. This day is significant for honoring ancestors whose death dates are unknown, allowing families to perform Shraddha and Tarpan rituals.
In Kolkata, devotees have gathered at various ghats along the Ganges to pay homage to their departed ancestors. Early this morning, large crowds assembled near the Sharda Maa temple in Bagbazar, chanting religious mantras and offering water to their forebears.
West Bengal Governor R.N. Ravi extended his greetings via social media, stating, “On this sacred occasion of Durga Puja, I wish everyone heartfelt congratulations. Maa Durga, the supreme form of Adi Shakti, is the eternal force that destroys evil, protects dharma, and ensures the triumph of truth.” He emphasized that the festival symbolizes the strength rooted in Bengal’s sacred land.
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari also took to social media, expressing, “Happy Mahalaya! On this auspicious start of Devi Paksha, I send my heartfelt love and wishes to all. May Maa’s arrival bring joy, peace, and prosperity to every life. I pray that the bonds of heritage, culture, unity, and brotherhood in West Bengal grow even stronger.”
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma marked the occasion by stating, “Today, on Mahalaya, the chants of Chandi Path signal the beginning of Devi Paksha, and the countdown to Durga Puja officially starts. Artists across Assam are finalizing the idols of Maa and her children as they prepare for their annual journey to Earth. Jai Jai Maa Durga!”
BJP leader Arvind Kumar Tripathi highlighted the significance of Mahalaya in Sanatan Dharma, noting it as a symbol of the end of Pitru Paksha and the beginning of Devi Paksha. He remarked that Mahalaya Amavasya, also called Sarvapitra Amavasya, marks the last day for honoring ancestors, paving the way for the festivities of Sharadiya Navratri and Durga Puja. According to tradition, it is believed that on this day, Maa Durga is invited to vanquish the buffalo demon Mahishasura.
As the countdown to Durga Puja begins, the BJP in Bengal shared a post showcasing the vibrant atmosphere in Kumartuli, where artisans are busy crafting idols from straw, clay, and devotion. The city is gearing up for the historic Mahalaya program at Eden Gardens, where excitement is palpable as preparations are made for the welcoming of Maa Durga.
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