With Mahalaya, Countdown Begins For Durga Pooja

Mahalaya marks beginning of most awaited festival for Bengalis - Durga Pooja. For Bengalis across globe, day rmally starts at 4 am with chanting of Mahisasura Mardini by Birendra Krishna Bhra. This year Mahalaya was observed On October 8. 

For Bengalis, thing can beat emotive appeal of Bhra's soulful rendition of Mahisasura Mardini. Generations after generations those observing Mahalaya have woken up to Bhra, never ever even attempting to modify ritual. day holds varied values.

occasion signifies end of Pitru Paksha, and beginning of Devi Paksha, which marks vent of Goddess Durga in her battle against evil. It is from this day that Durga Pooja fever begins. Durga Pooja starts from seventh day after Mahalaya and ends on tenth day of Dashami or Dussehra.

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occasion is associated with different practices and rituals. Many people perform 'tarpan' on this day to offer prayers to departed souls of ir ancestors and give 'bhog' to Brahmins, along with food and materials to needy. day is considered auspicious because Goddess Durga, accompanied by her children, is believed to have stepped on planet earth on this day.

day, however, holds a different significance for youth. For m, start of Mahalaya begins with a tour to picturesque lanes of potters in Kumartuli in Kolkata, where Goddess is given her eyes, in what is called as "Chokkhudaan". "Chokkhudaan" takes place at break of dawn on Mahalaya, where potters paint eyes of Durga. se lively lanes also attract young crowd of photographers who capture idols coming to life, as y are given final touches on this auspicious day.

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banks of rivers are also thronged by worshippers from dawn to perform ritual of 'tarpan'. fervour and festivity surrounding Durga Pooja and Navaratri start with Mahalaya. Idols of Goddess Durga are transported to various pandals from this day, with onset of last round of preparation for grand festival. Mahalaya brings with it a feeling of positivity, festivity, and warmth ahe of start of most anticipated festival.