Mahalaya & Tarpan — Remembering Our Ancestors Before Welcoming Maa Durga

Mahalaya holds a special place in the hearts of Bengalis. It marks the traditional transition from Pitru Paksha, a period associated with remembering and honouring our ancestors, to Devi Paksha, the auspicious period leading towards the worship of Maa Durga. On Mahalaya, many people perform Tarpan—a traditional offering of water, often with sesame seeds, while remembering their departed ancestors with reverence. Tarpan is a way of expressing gratitude and remembering those who came before us. It reminds us that our families, traditions and values have been passed down through generations. Mahalaya is also closely associated with the iconic radio programme Mahishasuramardini, presented in the powerful voice of Birendra Krishna Bhadra. His recitation of the Chandipath, along with devotional verses and the invocation of Goddess Durga, has become an enduring part of the Mahalaya morning tradition for generations of Bengalis. For many Bengali families, Mahalaya is therefore both a time of remembrance and a time of preparation. We remember our ancestors, seek their blessings and prepare to welcome Maa Durga. 🙏 Remember our ancestors. 🌺 Honour our traditions. 🪔 Welcome Maa Durga with devotion. Mahalaya reminds us that before we celebrate the arrival of the Goddess, we should also remember the generations whose blessings and traditions have brought us to where we are today.