Mahalaya 2026: Date, Time, Significance and When Durga Puja Begins

Kolkata: Mahalaya will be observed on Saturday, October 10, 2026, marking the end of Pitru Paksha and the beginning of Devi Paksha, the period associated with the arrival of Goddess Durga on Earth. The day falls on Ashwin Amavasya, also known as Sarva Pitru Amavasya in North India.

Mahalaya 2026: Date and Time

Mahalaya falls on October 10, 2026. According to the panchang timings cited in published reports, the Amavasya Tithi begins at 9:35 PM on Friday, October 9, and ends at 9:19 PM on Saturday, October 10 (Indian Standard Time). The reported period for performing *tarpan* is from 11:24 AM to 1:56 PM on October 10. These timings may vary by location and panchang, so devotees should confirm the local timings before performing rituals.

According to Hindu beliefs, Mahalaya marks the symbolic beginning of Goddess Durga's journey from Mount Kailash to her parents' home on Earth. The following Devi Paksha period builds anticipation for her arrival and the grand celebrations of Durga Puja.

Why Mahalaya Matters

Mahalaya holds special religious and cultural significance, particularly in West Bengal. It marks the conclusion of Pitru Paksha, the fortnight dedicated to remembering and paying tribute to ancestors. On this day, devotees perform tarpan, offering water and prayers to their forefathers.

In Kolkata, thousands traditionally gather at the ghats of the Hooghly River early in the morning to offer water, sesame seeds and kusha grass in remembrance of their ancestors. The ritual reflects respect for previous generations and remains an important part of the region's religious traditions.

Another significant Mahalaya tradition takes place in Kumartuli, the famous idol-makers' neighbourhood in north Kolkata. Artisans traditionally paint the eyes of Goddess Durga's idols in a ritual known as *Chokkhu Daan*. The ceremony symbolises the completion of the idols and is associated with the Goddess's arrival.

The Radio Programme That Became a Tradition

Mahalaya morning is closely associated with the iconic devotional programme *Mahishasura Mardini*. First broadcast by All India Radio in the 1930s, the programme combines Sanskrit hymns, Bengali devotional songs and narration. The celebrated recorded version featuring Birendra Krishna Bhadra continues to be heard in homes across Bengal.

Today, people listen to the programme through radio, television and digital platforms. For many families, waking up early on Mahalaya morning to hear Bhadra's distinctive narration remains a cherished tradition passed down through generations.

When Does Durga Puja Begin in 2026?

Sharadiya Navratri will begin on Sunday, October 11, 2026, the day after Mahalaya. In West Bengal, the main Durga Puja celebrations will begin a few days later.

According to the festival schedule, Maha Shashthi will be observed on Friday, October 16. On this day, the traditional *Bodhon* ritual is performed to ceremonially invoke Goddess Durga. The covered faces of the idols are also unveiled as part of the celebrations.

Mahalaya is more than a religious observance. It represents remembrance of ancestors, devotion to the Goddess and the beginning of preparations for one of Bengal's most significant annual festivals. The day marks a symbolic transition from the solemn observance of Pitru Paksha to the festive spirit of Devi Paksha, as devotees prepare to welcome Maa Durga.