Mahalaya Amavasya, also known simply as Mahalaya, marks the beginning of the Devi-Paksha and the end of the Pitri-Paksha, the fortnight of the forefathers, according to the Hindu lunar calendar. It is observed on the new moon day (Amavasya) in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada, which typically falls in late September or early October.

On this day, Hindus pay homage to their ancestors through a ritual known as ‘Shraadh’ or ‘Tarpan’, which involves offering food, especially kheer (a type of sweet rice pudding), lapsi (a sweet porridge made of wheat grains), rice, lentils, spring beans, and pumpkins, to crows, cows, and dogs, and making donations to the needy or to Brahmins. The belief is that the offerings reach the departed souls and bring them peace.

In West Bengal and other eastern parts of India, Mahalaya marks the beginning of the countdown to Durga Puja, the grand festival dedicated to Goddess Durga. Early in the morning, people listen to the “Mahishasura Mardini” broadcast – a collection of shlokas and songs dedicated to Durga, narrating her creation and victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura.

Mahalaya Amavasya is a significant day that bridges the gap between the past (through remembrance of departed ancestors) and the present (through the welcome of Goddess Durga), acknowledging the cycle of birth and death, and the continuous flow of life.