Mahalaya, the day indicating the descent of
Goddess Durga on Earth, was celebrated by Bengali community in the city on
Saturday. It is also the day which marks the end of Pitru Paksha or Pitru
Pokkho and beginning of Devi Pokkho. Pitru Paksha is a sixteen day period of
paying homage to the ancestors. On the last day of this phase, people offer
'Tarpan' (prayers) in the memory of their deceased forefathers.
The six-day countdown to Durga Puja begins
from Mahalaya. For most Bengalis, the day began with the narration of the
Goddess' battle against the demon Mahishasur, in the cosmic world. The
enchanting recital by Birendra Krishna Bhadra was played at 4 am to begin the
day of Mahalaya.
Sharing details of the festival, PK Chakraborty
coordinating and heading the association of Bengali club, said, “We give 'bhog'
to the Brahmins, along with food and materials to the needy. The day is
considered auspicious because Goddess Durga, accompanied by her children, is
believed to have stepped on planet earth on this day.”
The day was celebrated in households and
social media wishes. Following the same, a group celebration was organised at Bengali
club, Navlakha, where people from all over the city gathered to pray and feast.
“The good omen begins from this day and we
prepare to welcome the goddess,” Dr Sheela Karmokar said.