New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his warm wishes to the people of the country on the occasion of Mahalaya on Sunday. This is the day when the countdown for Durga Puja begins.
Hindus believe that it is on Mahalaya that Goddess Durga begins her descent from her abode on Mount Kailash to the Earth, a week before Durga Puja begins. The festival will begin on September 27 this year and conclude on October 2 on Vijaya Dashami.
“Wishing you all Shubho Mahalaya! As the sacred days of Durga Puja draw near, may our lives be filled with light and purpose. May the divine blessings of Maa Durga bring unwavering strength, lasting joy and wonderful health,” PM Modi wrote on X.
Union home minister Amit Shah also extended his greetings on the occasion.
“Shubho Mahalaya! On the holy occasion of Mahalaya, I extend my heartfelt greetings to all. May the unbound affection of Maa Durga shower all the divine blessings of joy, strength, prosperity, and good health on every home,” he wrote on X.
Mahalaya marks the end of Pitri Paksha and the start of Devi Paksha. To mark the end of Pitri Paksha, millions of people across the country performed rituals to offer water and food to their ancestors and seek blessings.
The festival of Navratri also starts from Monday, September 22. This is celebrated primarily in the western and northern parts of India.