Mahalaya to be observed across Bangladesh tomorrow

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Hindu communities across Bangladesh will observe Mahalaya on Saturday, marking the beginning of Devi Paksha and the countdown to Durga Puja.

Dhakeshwari National Temple will hold a special programme at 6am, followed by ancestral offerings at 7:30am and prayers at 9am. Ramna Kali Mandir will also organise celebrations at dawn.

Mahalaya marks the end of Pitru Paksha, a period dedicated to remembering ancestors, and the beginning of Devi Paksha. Devotees pay tribute to their ancestors through rituals, while recitations from Sree Sree Chandi and devotional songs remain central to the observance.

According to Dhaka University’s Jagannath Hall Upashanalaya chief priest Sadhan Chakrabarty, Goddess Durga is expected to arrive on a horse and depart by boat this year, traditionally associated with abundant crops and rainfall.

Durga Puja will formally begin on October 16 with Maha Shashthi and conclude with idol immersion on Bijaya Dashami on October 21.