Khagrachhari, Sept 21 (V7N) — The sacred occasion of Mahalaya, heralding the arrival of Goddess Durga, was celebrated at dawn across Bangladesh with the chanting of Chandi scriptures and rituals invoking the goddess on earth. The conclusion of Pitri Paksha has given way to Devi Paksha, beginning the countdown to the five-day Sharadiya Durga Puja, the most significant festival for the Hindu community.
 
Although primarily a religious festival for Sanatan followers, Durga Puja’s joyous spirit resonates as a universal celebration. Across the country, devotees are preparing for days of worship, rituals, and cultural events. In Khagrachhari, the central Lakshmi Narayan Temple hosted the largest Mahalaya gathering on Sept. 21, featuring daylong Chandi recitations, installation of the holy Kalash (sacred pot), floral offerings, and traditional worship rituals. The Sanatan Chhatra Jubo Parishad also organized cultural and devotional programs where participants engaged in hymns, dance, and other religious activities.
 
Devotees marked the morning with the sounds of drums, conch shells, and cymbals as they invoked Goddess Durga, believed to descend to earth at this auspicious time. The ceremonial Kalash was adorned with flowers, basil leaves, and bel leaves, symbolizing purity and devotion.
 
This year, Durga Puja will commence with Shashthi on September 28 and conclude with Bijoya Dashami on October 2, when devotees will bid farewell to the goddess through immersion rituals. According to traditional belief, the goddess will arrive on an elephant, symbolizing prosperity and abundance for the land. However, she is set to depart on a swing, a sign often interpreted as forewarning of possible epidemics or hardships.
 
Mahalaya, which marks the spiritual transition from darkness to light and the triumph of good over evil, sets the tone for Durga Puja. Across Bangladesh, anticipation is building among millions of devotees and communities who await the grandeur of the festival with devotion and festivity.
 
END/BTK/SMA/