Mahalaya Celebrations Ignite Festive Spirit Across Assam
Mahalaya Marks the Start of Durga Puja Festivities
For many, Mahalaya is more than a religious observance — it is the moment when the wait for Maa Durga’s arrival begins to feel real. (Photo: Kankan Bordoloi)
Guwahati/Jorhat/Biswanath, Oct 10: The streets of Assam buzzed with excitement and devotion on Saturday as numerous individuals ventured out in the early morning hours to celebrate Mahalaya, heralding the arrival of Goddess Durga and the onset of the festive season leading up to Durga Puja.
From the serene riverbanks of Guwahati to the lively streets of Jorhat and Biswanath, the event united people in a collective display of faith, tradition, and joy. For many, Mahalaya transcends mere religious significance; it symbolizes the moment when the anticipation for Maa Durga’s arrival becomes palpable.
Traditionally, it is believed that Goddess Durga, known as Mahishasuramardini, descends to Earth on Mahalaya. This day signifies the conclusion of Pitru Paksha, a time dedicated to honoring ancestors, and marks the beginning of Devipaksha, a sacred fortnight linked to the goddess.
At Guwahati’s Pandu Ghat, early morning gatherings created a vibrant atmosphere as people came together to welcome the goddess. For regular attendees, this occasion holds deep emotional value, rekindling their enthusiasm for the upcoming celebrations.
“I visit here every year, and the excitement never fades. I look forward to the Puja and the feeling of Maa’s arrival,” shared a local resident at Pandu Ghat.
The festive ambiance was equally palpable in Jorhat, where Mahalaya consistently attracts large crowds. From Gar Ali and AT Road to the newly built flyover and Na-Ali overbridge, the streets were bustling with people from dawn.
Young adults, families, and older residents all participated in the festivities, transforming the town into a vibrant sea of individuals united by their eagerness for the goddess’s arrival.
For some devotees, the occasion is steeped in traditional beliefs regarding the goddess’s arrival and departure. This year, the traditional calendar suggests that Goddess Durga will arrive on a horse and depart in a boat.
“Today is a significant day, and we all come out to feel the atmosphere and welcome Devi Maa. This year, Maa will arrive on a horse, symbolizing war and political strife, which may indicate potential challenges. Conversely, her departure in a boat signifies rain and agricultural prosperity, suggesting progress for society. We might witness both scenarios this time,” remarked a resident from Jorhat.
Mahalaya also signals the countdown to Navratri, during which devotees honor the nine forms of Goddess Durga. On the first day, she is revered as Shailaputri, the first of her nine incarnations.
In Biswanath, hundreds of devotees also took to the streets early in the morning to greet the goddess. Men, women, and youth participated in a procession through the town, continuing a cherished tradition observed annually.
Throughout these towns, the early morning gatherings embodied the excitement that accompanies Mahalaya — a day when familiar streets transform into festive spaces, and the arrival of Maa Durga heralds one of Assam’s most beloved celebrations.