Durga Puja 2026 Mahalaya: The Complete Guide to Dates, Rituals, and the Iconic Radio Broadcast Mahalaya 2026 falls on October 10, marking the start of Devi Paksha and Durga Puja festivities. Here's your complete guide to dates, tarpan timings, the iconic Mahishasuramardini broadcast, and what's new in Kolkata this year. Introduction For millions of Bengalis across India and the world, the arrival of Durga Puja is not announced by calendars or advertisements. It is announced by a voice. At 4 AM on Mahalaya morning, that voice—Birendra Krishna Bhadra's—comes through radio sets, YouTube streams, and car speakers, reciting the Chandipath with a resonance that has defined the season for over ninety years . Mahalaya 2026 falls on Saturday, October 10 . It marks the final day of Pitru Paksha, the fortnight dedicated to ancestors, and the first day of Devi Paksha, when Goddess Durga is believed to begin her journey toward Earth . This year brings a notable shift: Mahalaya arrives...
Who Started Tulsi Puja? Tulsi Puja, an integral part of Hindu traditions, is deeply rooted in ancient Indian history and religious texts. Also known as the worship of the Holy Basil plant, Tulsi Puja carries immense spiritual and cultural significance. The practice has been followed for thousands of years, intertwining mythology, devotion, and symbolism in Hindu households. Who started Tulsi Puja? Let us explore the origins, mythology, and traditions associated with this revered practice. The Mythological Origin of Tulsi Puja The origins of Tulsi Puja can be traced back to Hindu mythology, particularly to the story of Vrinda . Vrinda, a pious devotee of Lord Vishnu , is believed to be the earthly manifestation of Goddess Tulsi . According to the Puranas and other scriptures: Vrinda was married to a demon king named Jalandhar , who gained immense powers due to her unwavering devotion and chastity. To restore cosmic balance, Lord Vishnu disguised himself as Jalandhar and broke ...