DHAKA, Oct 6, 2021 (BSS) - The country's Hindu community today 
celebrated the Mahalaya, the auspicious occasion of heralding the advent of 
goddess Durga, with due religious fervor and enthusiasm.

     Mahalaya marks an invitation of sorts to goddess Durga to begin her 
journey from Kailash to her paternal home (Earth), along with her children.

     With the beginning of 'Devipaksha', Mahalaya is observed six days before 
Durga Puja, the biggest religious festival of the Bangalee Hindu community. 

     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 October 11, Durga Puja will begin with different rituals on the day 
of Maha Shashthi.

     On the occasion of the day, special programmes of Mahalaya were arranged 
at different temples across the country including the capital since morning.

     On this day, Hindus remember and pay homage to their ancestors, who 
passed away, by performing puja, and offering Brahmins clothes, food and 
sweets in their name.

     Mahanagar Sarbajanin Puja Committee arranged a programme marking the 
Mahalaya at Dhakeshwari National Temple at dawn.

     Similar programmes were also arranged in different temples in the 
capital city and across the country.

     A special programme was also arranged at 5.30am at Banani Puja Mandap 
marking the day.

     At the initiative of the Board of Directors of Sri-Sri Lokenath 
Brahmachari Ashram O Mandir, a clothing distribution ceremony among helpless 
people was held on its premises in the city's Swamibagh area.

     Food Minister Sadhan Chandra Majumder was present as the chief guest at 
the function. 

          Lawmaker and President of Ashram O Mandir Parichalona Parishad Pankaj 
Debnath presided over the function.