The Hindu community across the country will celebrate the Mahalaya, the auspicious occasion of heralding the advent of goddess Durga, on Wednesday (Oct 6). With the beginning of 'Devipaksha', Mahalaya is observed six days before Durga Puja, the biggest religious festival of the Bangalee Hindu community.
Mahalaya marks an invitation of sorts to goddess Durga to begin her journey from Kailash to her paternal home (earth), along with her children. This invitation is extended through the chanting of mantras from Sri Sri Chandi and singing devotional songs.
Countdown of Durga Puja, the biggest religious festival of Bangalee Hindu community, begins with the celebration of Mahalaya.
On Oct 11, Durga Puja will begin with different rituals on the day of Maha Shashthi.
On the occasion of the day, special programmes of Mahalaya will be arranged at different temples across the country including capital Dhaka on Wednesday morning, local media reported.
On this day, Hindus remember and pay homage to their ancestors, who passed away, by performing puja, and offering Brahmins clothes, food and sweets in their name.
Mahanagar Sarbajanin Puja Committee will arrange a programme marking the Mahalaya at Dhakeshwari National Temple at the dawn. Similar programmes will also be arranged in different temples in the capital city and across the country.
A special programme will be arranged at 5.30 a.m. at Banani Puja Mandap marking Mahalaya.
