Mahalaya 2022: Date, rituals, timings and significance

Mahalaya marks the end of Pitru Paksha-the fortnight long period when Hidus pay respect to the departed ancestors and the beginning of Devi Paksha or Durga Pooja.

Mahalaya holds a special significance also because on this day as a token of respect, water is offered to the ancestors in the form of Tarpan in the banks of the Ganges.

The early morning chanting of Mahishasura Mardini is another important aspect of Mahalaya. The day thus begins by singing the praise of Goddess Durga who is welcomed by chanting sacred hymns. All India Radio telecasts Mahishasura Mardini early in the morning throughout the country on Mahalaya.

Mahalaya this year
This year Mahalaya is being celebrated on September 25, 2022. The Amavasya Tithi begins at 03:12 am on September 25 and ends at 03:23 am on September 26. As per Drik Panchang, Kutup Muhurat will continue from 11:48 am to 12:37 pm, Rohina Muhurat from 12:37 pm to 01:25 pm, and Aparahna Kaal from 01:25 pm to 03:50 pm.

Significance
The day holds special significance in Bengal and is mostly marked as a public holiday throughout the state. At Brahma Muhurta or early morning Mahishasur Mardini is played in Bengali homes, in the iconic voice of Birendra Krishna Bhadra, whose collection of songs and mantras called Mahishasura Mardini has now acquired a cult status. The most famous one being ‘Jago Tumi Jago‘ (‘awaken, oh Goddess!’).It is believed that on this day Goddess Durga officially begins her journey from the Kailash — where she resides with Lord Shiva — to her maternal home on Earth for the four-day long Durga Puja festivities.