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Mahalaya 2026 Date: When Is Mahalaya? Check Significance, Rituals And Durga Puja Dates

Mahalaya 2026 Date: When Is Mahalaya? Check Significance, Rituals And Durga Puja Dates
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Mahalaya will be celebrated on Saturday, October 10. The day marks the end of Pitru Paksha and the start of Devi Paksha. Mahalaya holds deep religious and cultural significance for Bengalis. The occasion signals the countdown to Durga Puja and the arrival of Goddess Durga on Earth.

Mahalaya 2026: Date and Significance

Mahalaya falls on Ashwin Amavasya, the new moon day that concludes Pitru Paksha. It is the fortnight dedicated to remembering and paying homage to deceased ancestors. The occasion is also known as Sarva Pitru Amavasya in parts of India.

Traditionally, devotees perform tarpan, which is offering water, sesame seeds and prayers to their ancestors for peace and salvation. Many visit riverbanks and sacred ghats to perform these rituals. Others observe the rituals at home.

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Mahalaya also marks the beginning of Devi Paksha, the auspicious period leading up to Durga Puja. According to Hindu belief, Goddess Durga begins her journey from Mount Kailash to her parental home on Earth during this period, and heralds the victory of good over evil.

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Originally published by Sunday Guardian on Oct 9, 2026 Read the full article at sundayguardianlive.com
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