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...
Durga Maa: The Divine Mother of Power, Strength, and Protection Durga Maa, also known as Maa Durga , is one of the most revered and powerful deities in Hinduism. She is the embodiment of strength, protection, and motherhood , often worshipped as the ultimate protector against evil. Durga is depicted riding a lion or tiger, symbolizing courage and bravery, and holding various weapons in her multiple arms, each representing a different aspect of life. The Significance of Durga in Hinduism In the Hindu religion, Durga holds a central position as a warrior goddess, revered for her ability to protect the universe from evil forces . Her significance goes beyond just being a symbol of feminine power. She represents the infinite power of the cosmos and the ability to destroy ignorance, selfishness, and arrogance. Durga’s victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura, an embodiment of evil, marks her as the supreme force for good. This victory is celebrated every year during the festival of...