Sun Sep 21 07:50:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Mahalaya Marks Start of Durga Puja Festivities Across India**

**Kolkata, India** – Bengalis across the nation, and beyond, rose before dawn today to celebrate Mahalaya, a day marking the beginning of the ‘Devi Paksha’ and heralding the countdown to Durga Puja. The iconic radio program “Mahishasura Mardini,” featuring the powerful narration of Birendrakrishna Bhadra, resonated from homes and speakers, setting the tone for the festive season.

Across West Bengal, massive crowds gathered at the banks of the Hooghly River in Dakshineshwar as early as 4 am to perform ‘tarpan,’ a Hindu ritual offering water and prayers to ancestors. Thousands more took holy dips at Agni Theertham in Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu, observing Mahalaya Amavasya. Similar scenes were witnessed in Prayagraj and Haridwar, where devotees flocked to the Sangam and Har Ki Pauri.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his greetings on social media, wishing everyone “Shubho Mahalaya,” and hoping for strength, joy, and health through the blessings of Maa Durga. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also shared her best wishes and released a new Puja song composed by herself.

Mahalaya Amavasya signifies the end of Pitru Paksha, a fortnight dedicated to honoring ancestors. Rituals like tarpan are especially prevalent in West Bengal, Odisha, Assam, and Tripura, seeking peace for departed souls.

For Bengalis, Mahalaya holds a special cultural significance. The 4 am broadcast of ‘Mahishasura Mardini,’ particularly Birendrakrishna Bhadra’s recitation, has become a cherished tradition since the 1930s. While not a religious mandate, listening to the program evokes nostalgia, reverence, and the unmistakable feeling that Durga Puja is about to begin. Bhadra’s voice has become synonymous with Mahalaya, and his narration is still listened to after decades, especially on the radio.

The day’s events underscored the deep-rooted cultural and spiritual importance of Mahalaya as a prelude to the much-awaited Durga Puja festivities.

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