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...
How Durga Puja is Celebrated: A Deep Dive into India's Grandest Festival Durga Puja, a festival of immense cultural and religious significance, is celebrated with unparalleled enthusiasm and devotion across India, particularly in the state of West Bengal. This grand festival, dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga, symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. The celebrations span over several days and involve elaborate rituals, artistic displays, and vibrant cultural programs. In this article, we explore the intricate details of how Durga Puja is celebrated, delving into its history, rituals, and the vibrant festivities that make it one of the most awaited events of the year. The Origins of Durga Puja Durga Puja traces its origins back to ancient times, deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. The festival is celebrated to honor the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. According to legend, Mahishasura, a powerful demon with the ability to shape-shift, terrorized the hea...