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Mahalaya

Assamese

Also known as: Pitri Paksha ending, Sarva Pitri Amavasya

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Mahalaya
2026 Assamese Date

Mahalaya

About Mahalaya

Mahalaya marks the end of Pitri Paksha (fortnight of ancestors) and the beginning of Devi Paksha, heralding the start of the Durga Puja season. In Assam, the day is observed with rituals honouring ancestors.

Early in the morning, devotees listen to the Mahishasura Mardini composition on All India Radio. Families perform tarpan (water offerings to ancestors) in rivers and ponds, seeking their blessings and peace for departed souls.

In Assam, Mahalaya also marks the beginning of the countdown to Durga Puja. Artisans complete the final touches on Durga idols, and communities start preparing for the grand celebrations.

Vrat Vidhi & Fasting Rules

Mahalaya is observed with tarpan rituals for ancestors and formal preparations for Durga Puja.

Step-by-Step Fasting Procedures:
  • Wake up before sunrise and listen to the Mahishasura Mardini recitation.
  • Perform tarpan (water offerings) for ancestors in a river or pond.
  • Offer prayers to the family deity and seek ancestral blessings.
  • Begin preparations for the upcoming Durga Puja celebrations.

Puja Samagri & Ritual Steps

Essential Puja Samagri:
Water in a copper vessel for tarpanBlack sesame seedsDarbha grassRice and sesame for offeringsFlowers for the family deity
Puja Procedure:
  1. Wake up before sunrise and proceed to a water body.
  2. Perform tarpan for ancestors with water and black sesame.
  3. Offer prayers to the family deity for blessings.
  4. Begin preparations for the Durga Puja celebrations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the significance of Mahalaya?

Mahalaya marks the end of Pitri Paksha and the beginning of Devi Paksha, heralding the start of Durga Puja celebrations.

Q: Why is the Mahishasura Mardini recitation important?

The composition describes Goddess Durga's victory over the demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.

Note: All timings are represented in 24-hour notation in local time of the selected location with DST adjustment (if applicable).

Hours which are past midnight are suffixed with next day date. In Panchang, a day starts and ends with local sunrise.

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