How Does PM Modi Wish Us on Mahalaya?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Mahalaya marks the end of 'Shradh' and the start of Durga Puja.
- PM Modi emphasizes light, purpose, and divine blessings.
- Traditions include tarpan and listening to hymns.
- Mahalaya signifies the victory of good over evil.
- Preparations for Durga Puja begin in earnest on this day.
New Delhi, Sep 21 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his warm wishes to the nation on the auspicious occasion of Mahalaya, which precedes the grand celebration of Durga Puja.
He conveyed his message on X, stating, “Wishing everyone a Shubho Mahalaya! As we approach the sacred days of Durga Puja, may our lives be enriched with light and purpose. May the divine blessings of Maa Durga bestow upon us unwavering strength, enduring joy, and excellent health.”
Mahalaya marks the end of 'Shradh' or 'Pitru Paksha', a 16-day observance dedicated to honoring ancestors, and signifies the onset of Durga Puja festivities.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also took to social media to share her wishes. She remarked, “Awake Durga, awake, bearer of ten weapons.”
“On the occasion of Tan, Agomoni, and Abahan, I extend my heartfelt Mahalaya greetings to everyone. On this day, I am excited to share a new Puja song that I have written and composed,” she added in her post.
Mahalaya heralds the beginning of Devi Paksha, a 10-day celebration dedicated to the Goddess Durga, culminating in Durga Puja. It symbolizes the arrival of Goddess Durga to Earth for the purpose of defeating the demon king Mahishasura, marking an auspicious day that signifies the victory of good over evil.
In West Bengal, this day is traditionally celebrated with the pre-dawn airing of 'Mahishasura Mardini', a program featuring hymns and chants that honor the Goddess, and listening to it is a cherished custom for many.
Thousands across West Bengal engage in 'tarpan,' marking the start of the festive season with Durga Puja. The day begins with people paying their respects to their ancestors along the banks of the Hooghly River and other water bodies throughout the state.
Following Mahalaya, the preparations for Durga Puja ramp up significantly, particularly in West Bengal, as the countdown to the festival officially commences. On this day, sculptors traditionally perform the ritual of 'Chokhhu Daan', painting the eyes of Devi Durga.