Mahalaya 2024 Date and Devi Paksha First Day Significance: From Listening to 'Mahishasura Mardini' by Birendra Krishna Bhadra to Preparations for Durga Puja, All You Need To Know
The observance of Mahalaya, with its blend of ancestral rites and preparations for the divine, encapsulates a unique aspect of the Hindu tradition that underscores the cyclical nature of life, devotion, and celebration.
Mahalaya marks a profound and pivotal moment in Hindu tradition, particularly for the Bengali community. Known as the final day of Pitru Paksha, Mahalaya also ushers in Sarvapitri Amavasya, and it heralds the start of Devi Paksha. Let’s understand the date and importance of Mahalaya 2024, its cultural and religious implications, and its role in the wider context of the Durga Puja celebrations. When is the first day of Devi Paksha 2024? When does the Mahalaya 2024 date fall? What is "Mahishasura Mardini" by Birendra Krishna Bhadra and when can one listen to this via live streaming online? There are so many questions and we will try and answer each of them in detail here. Durga Puja 2024 Start and End Dates in India: When Is Mahalaya, Durga Ashtami, Maha Navami and Bijoya Dashami? Check Date-Wise Details of Bengali Durga Puja.
Mahalaya 2024 Date and Significance
Scheduled for October 2, 2024, this day is imbued with deep spiritual significance and serves as a key prelude to the grand festivities of Durga Puja. Mahalaya is a day of considerable importance in Hindu traditions, particularly in the Bengali calendar. It falls on the last day of Pitru Paksha, a fortnight dedicated to honoring ancestors.
Mahalaya is also recognised as Sarvapitri Amavasya, a new moon day that holds special significance for those observing the rituals of Pitru Paksha. On this day, families complete their ancestral rites and seek blessings for the peace and liberation of their forebears' souls.
Which Is the First Day of Devi Paksha?
The first day of Devi Paksha 2024 falls on October 2 with Mahalaya. It marks the end of Pitru Paksha, which started on September 17.
The Arrival of the New Moon and Devi Paksha
Mahalaya’s timing is crucial as it signifies the arrival of the new moon and sets the stage for Devi Paksha, a sacred period of two weeks leading up to Durga Puja. Devi Paksha is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga and is characterised by various rituals and preparations that build anticipation for the grand festival.
The devotion and fervour during this time prepare devotees for the grand celebration of Durga Puja, where Goddess Durga is venerated as the embodiment of strength, compassion, and divine power. Mahalaya holds special significance in Bengali culture and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and reverence. Traditionally, the day is observed with various rituals and activities that set the tone for the upcoming Durga Puja festivities.
Listening to Mahalaya Broadcasts
One of the most cherished traditions is listening to the Mahalaya radio broadcast, which features recitations from the Chandi Path and devotional songs dedicated to Goddess Durga. This broadcast, often presented in a melodious and dramatic style, creates an emotional and spiritual ambience, bringing the essence of the festival into homes.
'Mahishasura Mardini' by Birendra Krishna Bhadra
"Mahishasura Mardini" or "Mahisasuramardini" is a popular radio programme that has been on air or broadcasting since 1931 by All India Radio Kolkata at 4.00 am in the morning of Mahalaya. It is one and half hour long programme that has a collection of shlokas and songs and a recitation of scriptures from the Chandi Path or Durga Saptashati. It was presented by Birendra Krishna Bhadra. Listening to this broadcast is an integral part of every Kolkata household on Mahalaya day.
Preparations for Durga Puja
Mahalaya marks the beginning of intense preparations for Durga Puja. Families and communities start organising the elaborate decorations, creating beautiful pandals (temporary temples), and planning the various rituals and celebrations that will follow. This period is characterised by a palpable sense of excitement and devotion as preparations for the grand festival intensify.
The observance of Mahalaya, with its blend of ancestral rites and preparations for the divine, encapsulates a unique aspect of the Hindu tradition that underscores the cyclical nature of life, devotion, and celebration. As we approach this auspicious day, it’s a time to reflect, prepare, and eagerly anticipate the grand festivities that lie ahead, embracing the joyous spirit and divine grace that Mahalaya and Durga Puja bring.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 30, 2024 12:28 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).