Dhaka: Mahalaya, an occasion that signifies the arrival of Goddess Durga, will be observed tomorrow with various rituals by the Hindu community nationwide.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Mahalaya marks the conclusion of Pitru Paksha, a fortnight dedicated to ancestors, and the commencement of Devi Paksha, the divine fortnight.
On Mahalaya, Goddess Durga is believed to begin her journey from her home in Kailash to her paternal abode on Earth, an event celebrated through the Durga Puja festival. The day is characterized by the chanting of mantras from the holy text Sree Sree Chandi and the singing of devotional songs, emphasizing the power of Goddess Durga over evil forces.
The traditional sonorous voice of Birendra Krishna Bhadra, a legendary narrator and radio broadcaster, once dominated the recitations. Today, similar programs are broadcasted by various media outlets. The recorded version of Mahishasura Mardini, recounting the destruction of the evil force Mohishasura, is customarily played at the predawn of Mahalaya in Bengali Hindu homes in Bangladesh and the Indian state of West Bengal.
Special Mahalaya programs will be held at different temples, including the Dhakeshwari National Temple in the capital, Dhaka, at dawn. Hindus will honor their ancestors by performing puja and offering robes to Brahmins. Concurrently, other temples across the country will host similar programs.
The five-day Durga Puja, the most significant religious festival for the Bangalee Hindu community, is set to begin on September 28.