The Bangali Hindu community in Bangladesh, like elsewhere in the world, celebrating the Mahalaya today, the auspicious occasion heralding the advent of goddess Durga.
With the beginning of "Devipaksha," Shuvo Mahalaya marks the beginning of Durga Puja celebrations, the biggest religious festival of the Bangali Hindu community.
Mahalaya marks an invitation of sorts extended to goddess Durga to begin her journey from Kailash to her paternal home (earth), along with her children.
This invitation is extended through the chanting of mantras from Sri Sri Chandi, and singing devotional songs. Countdown of Durga Puja begins with the celebration of Mahalaya.
On Oct 4, the Durga Puja will begin with different rituals on the day of Maha Shashthi.
On the occasion, special programmes of Mahalaya arranged at different temples across the country, including capital Dhaka.
