October 14, 2023: Mahalaya usually marks the beginning of Durga Puja festivities. This is the day when the goddess Durga is believed to begin her journey from Mount Kailash to Earth. In 2023, it is believed that Maa Durga will arrive and depart in horse which means war and dispute.

Mahalaya marks the end of the Pitru Paksha and the beginning of Devi Paksha. The word “Mahalaya” is derived from two Sanskrit words, “Maha” and “Alaya,” which together mean the “Great Abode” or the “Home of the Goddess.”

On this day, devotees wake up early in the morning on Mahalaya to recite hymns from the Devi Mahatmya (Chandi) scripture. Hindus perform tarpaṇa by offering water and food to their dead ancestors.

Durga Puja is a Hindu festival which pays homage to the Hindu goddess Durga. It is celebrated because of Durga's victory over Mahishasura. Durga Puja is a ten day festival in the month of ‘Ashwin’ (September –October). This year, the celebrations will begin from October 20 - 24, 2023.

After Mahalaya, the preparations for Durga Puja begin. Artisans and craftsmen begin crafting idols of Goddess Durga.