Mumbai: Mahalaya, a pivotal day in the Hindu calendar, holds deep significance as it marks the commencement of Durga Puja 2024. This year, Mahalaya in 2024 will be observed on October 2, signalling the end of Pitru Paksha and the beginning of the festive period. It is on this day that Goddess Durga embarks on her journey from her celestial abode to Earth, symbolising her arrival at her parental home. For many, Mahalaya is the spiritual prologue to Durga Puja, a celebration of the victory of good over evil.
When is Mahalaya 2024?
In 2024, Mahalaya will take place on Monday, October 2, followed by the start of Sharadiya Navratri on October 3. This marks the day when Hindus across the world prepare to welcome Goddess Durga and begin the Navratri celebrations, culminating in Durga Puja 2024 on October 12.
The Significance of Mahalaya in 2024
Mahalaya not only marks the end of Pitru Paksha Shraddha but is also considered the day when the earth-bound journey of Goddess Durga begins. In religious traditions, Mahalaya is the day when prayers and rituals are performed to honour one’s ancestors. This year’s Mahalaya 2024 date and time coincides with the Amavasya, often referred to as Sarva Pitru Amavasya, when Hindus offer food and water to their forefathers.
With the arrival of Mahalaya, devotees across the globe eagerly prepare for the grand festivities of Durga Puja 2024.
Sharadiya Navratri 2024 and Durga Puja
The Durga Puja 2024 Mahalaya is followed by nine days of Navratri, where devotees worship the nine forms of Goddess Durga. Each day holds its own significance, with devotees offering prayers to a different manifestation of Durga:
Shailaputri – Daughter of the mountains – October 3
Brahmacharini – Goddess of penance and austerity – October 4
Chandraghanta – Warrior goddess with a bell-shaped moon – October 5
Kushmanda – Creator of the universe – October 6
Skandamata – Mother of Lord Skanda – October 7
Katyayani – Fierce form of the goddess – October 8
Kalaratri – Destroyer of evil – October 9
Mahagauri – Goddess of purity – October 10
Siddhidatri – Bestower of boons and blessings – October 11
The celebrations culminate in Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, on October 12, 2024, when the triumph of Goddess Durga over the demon king Mahishasura is commemorated.
Durga Puja 2024 dates
The days following Mahalaya 2024 are filled with religious fervour, rituals, and joyous festivities. Devotees invoke the blessings of Goddess Durga and participate in the elaborate rituals that make Durga Puja one of the most celebrated festivals in India. This year, with Mahalaya Day on October 2, devotees will begin preparations for the much-awaited Durga Puja 2024.
Durga Puja in 2024 is set to commence on 9th October and conclude on 13th October. The festivities usually begin seven days following Mahalaya.
As the festival approaches, the streets of Kolkata and other parts of India will light up with grandeur, echoing the chants of “Subho Mahalaya” and the reverence for Goddess Durga.
2024 Mahalaya: Rituals and Celebrations
The day of Mahalaya is often observed with the recitation of Chandipath, a set of hymns and verses dedicated to the Goddess. Many also perform Tarpan, a ritual to pay homage to their ancestors, especially during the Mahalaya Amavasya. In Bengal, the day also involves the beginning of preparations for the grand Durga Puja pandals that will soon host thousands of devotees.
With Mahalaya 2024 on the horizon, the anticipation of Durga Puja is growing, and the excitement of welcoming the Goddess continues to build.
Mahalaya 2024 falls on October 2, marking the start of Durga Puja and Navratri. Explore the significance of Mahalaya, key dates, and how Goddess Durga’s arrival is celebrated. Spirituality Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
