Archive · 11 Oct 2026
Modi Extends Mahalaya Greetings, Prays for Peace and Prosperity
Mahalaya is a special day observed by many Hindus.
It marks the end of a time for remembering ancestors and the start of a period connected with Goddess Durga.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent greetings to people for the occasion.
He wished for happiness, kindness, hope, peace and prosperity.
In West Bengal and other eastern states, some people listen to a devotional programme about Durga’s victory over Mahishasura.
People may also offer water and prayers to remember family members who have died.
This year, Mahalaya is on October 10.
Sharad Navratri starts the next day, and Vijayadashami is on October 20.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted people on Mahalaya and prayed for happiness, compassion, hope, peace and prosperity.
Modi shared his message on X and also offered greetings in Bengali.
Mahalaya marks the end of Pitri Paksha and the beginning of Devi Paksha, heralding Goddess Durga’s arrival.
Devotees may listen to the devotional programme ‘Mahishasura Mardini’ and perform tarpan in memory of ancestors.
Mahalaya falls on October 10; Sharad Navratri begins October 11, and Vijayadashami is October 20.
- Who
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted people observing Mahalaya.
- What
- Modi offered Mahalaya greetings and prayed for peace and prosperity.
- When
- Saturday; Mahalaya falls on October 10, Sharad Navratri begins October 11, and Vijayadashami is October 20.
- Where
- Modi shared his message on X; the occasion is especially significant in West Bengal and other eastern states.
- Why
- Mahalaya marks the end of Pitri Paksha and the beginning of Devi Paksha, which heralds Goddess Durga’s arrival.
- Greeting
- Modi shared greetings in English and Bengali.
- Mahalaya date
- October 10
- Sharad Navratri begins
- October 11
- Vijayadashami
- October 20
- Traditional devotional programme
- Mahishasura Mardini
- Ancestor remembrance ritual
- Tarpan, involving offerings of water and prayers