In Kolkata, India, thousands of devotees flocked to the banks of the Ganga River on September 21 for a sacred dip during Mahalaya Amavasya. This special day marks the end of Pitru Paksha, a 16-day period when Hindus honor their ancestors through rituals like Pind Daan and prayers.
People came to offer tributes to their forefathers and departed loved ones, believing these acts bring peace to their souls. In Hindu tradition, performing Pind Daan on Sarva Pitru Amavasya—the last day of Pitru Paksha—helps guide ancestors to a realm of eternal calm.
Mahalaya Amavasya holds deep meaning, especially during the Purattasi month. Devotees performed tarpan rituals to pray for their ancestors’ blessings, shared bhog offerings with Brahmins, and distributed food and essentials to those in need. Many also fasted and conducted Pithur Karma Puja, hoping to earn good fortune and family happiness from the spirits above.
This day kicks off the excitement for Durga Puja, one of India’s biggest festivals. Legend says it marks the goddess Durga’s journey from the Himalayas to her family home. Celebrations build up over the next week, reaching a high on the seventh day and wrapping up on Dashami, also known as Dussehra.
Every year, similar gatherings happen across India with holy dips in rivers, keeping these ancient Hindu customs alive for generations.
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