Shubo Mahalaya Sees Thousands Gather For Ancestral Tarpan Rituals

Thousands of devotees gathered along the Hooghly River and at water bodies across West Bengal on Saturday, October 10, to observe Mahalaya and offer prayers to their departed ancestors. People arrived at river ghats in Kolkata early in the morning to perform tarpan, a traditional Hindu ritual involving offerings of water and prayers in remembrance of deceased family members. Families gathered along the riverbanks, continuing a long-standing religious practice associated with Pitru Paksha. The occasion also marked the beginning of the countdown to Durga Puja, one of West Bengal’s most significant annual festivals.

Mahalaya holds particular importance in the Hindu calendar as it marks the transition from Pitru Paksha, a period dedicated to honouring ancestors, to Devi Paksha, associated with the arrival of Goddess Durga. Observed on the new moon day of the Hindu month of Ashwin, the occasion brings together religious traditions and cultural celebrations across Bengal. For many families, performing tarpan is an expression of respect and gratitude towards previous generations. The ritual is traditionally conducted at rivers, ponds and other water bodies, where devotees offer water while remembering their ancestors.

The early-morning observances were accompanied by the traditional broadcast of Mahishasura Mardini, a programme of devotional music, chants and recitations closely associated with Mahalaya. Featuring the iconic voice of Birendra Krishna Bhadra, the broadcast has remained an integral part of the occasion for generations of Bengali households. Many families begin the day by listening to the programme, which recounts the story of Goddess Durga and her victory over the demon Mahishasura. Alongside the ancestral rituals, this tradition signals the cultural transition towards the festive season.

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Kolkata’s river ghats witnessed gatherings of devotees performing the rituals during the morning hours. The annual observance brings people from different neighbourhoods to the banks of the Hooghly, where priests often guide families through customary prayers. Similar gatherings take place at water bodies in other parts of West Bengal, reflecting the widespread observance of Mahalaya across the state. The occasion combines personal remembrance with shared religious traditions that continue to hold significance in Bengali cultural life.

Preparations for Durga Puja are also gathering momentum across Kolkata, with organisers working on elaborate pandals, decorative lighting and cultural programmes. Mahalaya traditionally serves as an important milestone in the lead-up to the festival, building anticipation among devotees and communities. The celebrations honour Goddess Durga and her victory over evil, with festivities extending across neighbourhoods and public spaces. For many Bengalis, the day brings together remembrance of ancestors, devotional observances and the excitement of welcoming the annual festive season.

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