Mahalaya Amavasya 2025: All you need to know about date, time and ceremonies

Mahalaya Amavasya 2025: The month of September carries a special emotion for millions of Bengalis and devotees across eastern India. This year, Mahalaya will be observed on Sunday, September 21, 2025. This marks the end of Pitru Paksha. This fortnight is devoted to remembering ancestors, and the beginning of Devi Paksha, when Goddess Durga is welcomed to Earth.

Mahalaya is not just a ritual but also a cultural heartbeat. People especially in West Bengal, Odisha, Assam, and Tripura celebrate with grand affair. Families wake up before dawn to listen to the iconic radio program on Mahishasura Mardini. This blend of hymns and storytelling narrates the goddess’s victory over the demon king Mahishasura in a very mesmerizing way.

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At the spiritual core of Mahalaya lies tarpan. Tarpan is the offering of water to ancestors. People gather near rivers, lakes and other water bodies to perform the rites. And then, they pray for the peace of departed souls.

Wishing you all Shubho Mahalaya! As the sacred days of Durga Puja draw near, may our lives be filled with light and purpose. May the divine blessings of Maa Durga bring unwavering strength, lasting joy and wonderful health.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 21, 2025

Shraddha rituals also take place at home, with food, sesame seeds, and prayers offered in remembrance. People believe that these offerings help souls attain liberation.

Also Read: Mahalaya: The dawn of Devi Paksha and what it means to the Bengali community

The day is equally significant for artisans. In idol workshops across Kolkata and other towns in Bengal, Mahalaya marks the moment of Chokkhu Daan. The eyes are painted onto Durga idols. This act is believed to breathe divine life into the clay figures. And, this makes them ready for the grand Durga Puja celebrations ahead. The sight of artists adding the goddess’s gaze is a deeply moving experience for devotees.

Communities prepare with enthusiasm. They clean and decorate homes, light up temples. Later groups gather for recitations of the Chandi Path.

Cultural programs of music and dance are also a part of the celebrations. It sets the festive mood that will last through Durga Puja.

This year, Mahalaya Amavasya begins at 12:16 AM on September 21 and ends at 1:23 AM on September 22. Important timings include Kutup Muhurat (11:50 AM to 12:38 PM), Rohina Muhurat (12:38 PM to 1:27 PM). This ends with Aparahna Kaal (1:27 PM to 3:53 PM).