Mahalaya, also known as Mahalaya Amavasya is a day which marks the end of Pitru Paksha and the beginning of Devi Paksha. Pitru Paksha is a 15 lunar days period when Hindus pay homage to their ancestors. It is believed that during this time, the souls of the ancestors come between the Pitru Loka and Bhu Loka. This is a time when people make offerings to their ancestors, especially through food.
On the other hand, Devi Paksha marks the beginning of Durga Puja. This is a time when Maa Durga descends on Earth and stays at her maternal home. Maa Durga is worshipped during this time and the festivities end with Vijaya Dashami.
Mahalaya 2024 Date
This year, Mahalaya will be celebrated on October 2, 2024. This is the last day of Pitru Paksha and it is also known as Sarvapitri Amavasya or Mahalaya Amavasya. Maa Durga arrives on Earth on the first day of Devi Paksha and she departs on the day of Vijaya Dashami. Drik Panchang says that it is considered an omen of the coming time if Maa Durga arrives and departs on weekdays.
Mahalaya History and Significance
It is believed that Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshwara created Goddess Durga to defeat demon king Mahishasura. The demon king had received a boon which said that he could not be killed by any god or man. Hence, when the gods were defeated by the demon king, they sought help from Adi Shakti. Maa Durga fought with the demon king Mahishasura and defeated him. During the fight, the goddess was given several weapons to fight against the demon king by the gods. Hence, Maa Durga is believed to be the Goddess of power.