Durga Puja 2025: Celebrations Begin with Mahalaya

With the auspicious occasion of Mahalaya, the official countdown to the biggest festival of the Sanatan (Hindu) community — Sharadiya Durga Puja — has begun. On Sunday, September 21, 2025, the sacred Devi Paksha commenced, ushering in days filled with devotion, festivities, and joy.

In the early hours of the morning, devotees invoked Goddess Durga through Chandipath, the rhythmic beats of dhak and kansar, and the sound of conch shells. This invocation of the ten-armed Goddess through the recitation of the Chandi is what is traditionally known as Mahalaya. The sacred verses narrate the creation and glory of Goddess Durga, symbolizing the triumph of divine power over evil. Devotees firmly believe that on this day, the Goddess descends to Earth and takes her place in puja mandaps as the embodiment of Shakti.

Every autumn, the arrival of Goddess Durga from Mount Kailash brings waves of excitement across Bengal — from villages to bustling cities. The entire nation transforms into a canvas of joy and spirituality. This year is no exception. Temples and puja mandaps across the country, including Dhakeshwari National Temple, Ramna Kali Mandir, Rajarbagh Kali Mandir, and Ramakrishna Mission, are glowing with lights and vibrant decorations as final preparations continue. While idols are almost complete, artisans are now busy adding colors and finishing touches.

Durga Puja will officially begin six days after Mahalaya, with Maha Shasthi on September 28, 2025. The following days will be observed as Maha Saptami on September 29, Maha Ashtami on September 30, Maha Navami on October 1, and Bijoya Dashami on October 2.

Bangladesh Puja Celebration Council President Basudev Dhar says, this year Durga Puja will be celebrated in 33,355 mandaps and temples across the country.

Though Durga Puja is celebrated worldwide by Bengalis and Hindus alike, its most magnificent observance is seen in Bangladesh and India, where the festival transforms into a dazzling blend of faith, art, and cultural heritage. Beyond borders, expatriate Bengalis and Hindu communities also embrace the occasion with devotion and festivity.

As the rhythmic sounds of the dhak echo and the sacred chants fill the air, Mahalaya marks not just the arrival of Devi Durga but also the spirit of unity, joy, and cultural pride that transcends generations.