Mahalaya marks the arrival of Maa Durga on earth. Families wake up before sunrise, turning on All India Radio at 4 a.m. The magical voice of Birendra Krishna Bhadra fills the air with Mahishasurmadini.
Boatmen, priests, and devotees rowed the boats along the riverbank from one riverside village to another, as hundreds of villagers offered coconuts and garlands to bid farewell to the Goddess.
In honour of Maa Durga, who resides within each woman and celebrates her days with us, we bring forth the story of Bijoli Murmu, a self-taught toto-driver from an indigenous community of Salboni in Midnapore.
Mahalaya marks the beginning of Devi Paksha, a day of deep cultural and spiritual significance for the Bengali community, symbolizing the arrival of Maa Durga.
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended Navami's wishes and sought blessings for everyone, said the Prime Minister's Office.
PM Modi, in his tweet, said, “This Mahalaya, we pray to Maa Durga to bless with strength to overcome the global pandemic. May the divine blessings of Maa Durga ensure good health and happiness in everyone’s life. May our planet prosper! Shubho Mahalaya!”
As Durga Puja is welcomed with the unbridled verve of happiness, similar should be the Bishorjon.
Legend has it that Dashami is the day when she sets out for Kailash, her husband’s abode, accompanied by her children.
Legend has it that Dashami is the day when she sets out for Kailash, her husband’s abode, accompanied by her children.
Normally, Mahalaya is observed seven days before the Durga Puja.
