Mahalaya - the beginning
Mahalaya is part of and marks the end of a 16-day lunar period during which traditionally Hindus would pay homage to their ancestors
In today’s busy lifestyle this would be the only day, if at all when some would like to observe the ritual which in reality is on the wane
Mahalaya heralds the autumnal equinox when the sun begins its journey from the northern hemisphere to the south. More importantly in Bengal, it is the beginning of what is known as ” devi paksha”. Devi is the goddess. Paksha is the lunar period of which traditionally the last four days are dedicated to the worship and festivities. The Bengali also believes The goddess along with her children starts her journey from the Kailash in the Himalayas on Mahalaya to descend to the plains to b with her paternal family for the four festive days.
(Here in God zone we could kindle our imagination into thinking she might be starting her journey for Christchurch from the southern alps)