Mahalaya 2024: From Pitru paksha to the arrival of Maa Durga – all you need to know

Mahalaya 2024 is here, and it's more than just tradition—it's the ultimate festival pre-game! Say bye to Pitru Paksha and get hyped for Maa Durga's arrival. Whether you're into rituals or just the festive buzz, this day sets the tone for all things Durga Puja vibes!?Hindus all across the world celebrate Mahalaya, a holy day that marks the end of Pitru Paksha (a period dedicated to ancestors) and the start of Devi Paksha (the happy time following Durga Puja).

This year, Mahalaya Amavasya will be celebrated on October 2. The annual religious occasion is especially important because it is the last phase of the year to pay honour to ancestors.?According to Hindu religion, the spirits of the departed live in Pitru Loka, a place between heaven and earth. Pitru Paksha is the phase which gives an opportunity for the descendants to get a chance to connect with the souls they have lost.

Mahalaya 2024: Date and timing

Mahalaya starts from October 1, 2024, at 9:39 PM and ends October 3, 2024, at 12:18 AM. Qutup Muhurta, from 11:12 AM to 12:00 PM, and Rauhin Muhurta, from 12:00 PM to 12:47 PM, are important periods to perform rituals. The afternoon time of 12:47 PM to 3:11 PM is also very important for these rites.

What to do on Mahalaya

The usual customs for Mahalaya Amavasya (Sarva Pitri Amavasya) involve getting up early for a holy bath, cleaning the house, praying to Lord Surya, preparing sattvik food, and inviting Brahmins. The tarpan ritual is performed by family members, particularly males, with the assistance of an invited Brahmin. It is common to feed cows, dogs, ants, and crows on this occasion. Following the puja, the male family member gives the Brahmin food, clothing, and dakshina. The family members do not eat till the Brahmin has finished his meal.

In addition to the Pitru Paksha ceremonies, the day is significant for artists who manufacture Goddess Durga idols. There is a particular ritual for artisans associated with Mahalaya Amavasya. Artisans add the final touch by drawing Maa Durga's eyes.

Mahalaya in Bengali households

For Bengalis specially residing in West Bengal, Mahalaya is more than just a word; it is a treasured custom full of nostalgia.?In most Bengali households, it means waking up in the morning to listen to Birendra Krishna Bhadra narrating the goddess Durga's victory over the mayhem-causing demon Mahishasura.

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After Mahalaya, the countdown to Durga Puja begins in full speed! Bengalis and festival lovers all over the world start to prepare for the major event: Maa Durga's beautiful entrance. Saptami, Ashtami, and Navami are all about pandal hopping in fashionable ethnic outfits, street food marathons, and "Instagrammable" moments.

The celebrations reach its peak as Dashami brings the legendary?Sindoor Khela, in which married women go all out, until they bid farewell to Maa.