By TC News Desk
Agartala, 2nd October 2024: The auspicious occasion of Mahalaya on Wednesday heralds the beginning of Devi Paksha, marking the end of Pitra Paksha. The message of the goddess’s arrival resonates from house to house, filling the air with festive anticipation.
In keeping with tradition, people gathered at dawn at various riverbanks and ghats, including the Lakshmi Narayan Bari Pond in Agartala to perform tarpan rituals for the peace of their ancestors. This year, as in previous years, long queues were seen at these sacred sites, with devotees offering sesame water to honor their forebears.
The streets of Agartala were abuzz with enthusiastic crowds early in the morning, celebrating the onset of the festive season. Hundreds of people thronged various ponds, including the Lakshmi Narayan Temple to participate in the rituals marking the end of Pitra Paksha and the beginning of Devi Paksha.
A local priest explained, “These 15 days from Pratipada to Mahalaya are also known as Preta Paksha. During this period, tarpan is performed by offering sesame seeds to the ancestors. With the end of Pitra Paksha, Devi Paksha begins signaling the start of the Puja festivities.”
Adding to the festive spirit, Agartala Municipal Corporation Ward No. 3 organized a vibrant bike rally on the holy day of Matri Mahalaya. The rally saw participation from Youth and Sports Affairs Minister Tinku Roy, Ward No. 3 Corporator Jagadish Das and other dignitaries.
The excitement was palpable across the city especially at MBB College, where students and locals alike gathered to celebrate. The festive atmosphere was further enlivened by the sight of people taking selfies and enjoying the day.
Mahalaya has once again touched the hearts of Bengalis, heralding the arrival of the goddess and the joyous Puja season.
