PM Modi invokes Maa Durga's blessings on Mahalaya, wishes peace and prosperity for all

New Delhi, Oct 10 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Saturday, extended Mahalaya greetings to people, invoking the blessings of Maa Durga and expressing hope that the auspicious occasion would bring happiness, compassion and hope to society, with peace and prosperity prevailing everywhere.

"Shubho Mahalaya! We seek the blessings of Maa Durga. May the blessings fill our society with happiness, compassion and hope. May there be peace and prosperity all around," Modi wrote in a post on the social media platform X. He also shared the greeting in Bengali, extending his wishes to people ahead of the annual Durga Puja festivities.

Mahalaya holds a special place in the cultural and religious calendar of Bengal, marking the beginning of the countdown to Durga Puja and traditionally heralding the commencement of Devi Paksha, the auspicious fortnight dedicated to Goddess Durga. The occasion is associated with the invocation of the goddess as the embodiment of divine power who destroys evil and restores righteousness. In West Bengal, Mahalaya is observed with prayers, devotional music and the iconic recitation of Mahishasura Mardini, which recounts Goddess Durga's triumph over the demon Mahishasura.

The broadcast of the devotional programme, featuring Sanskrit chants and Bengali narration, has become an enduring tradition for generations of Bengali households, signalling the arrival of the festive season and the anticipation of the goddess's annual visit. Beyond its religious significance, Mahalaya represents an important expression of Bengali cultural identity and collective heritage. It sets the tone for Durga Puja, one of the most prominent religious and cultural festivals in the country, celebrated with elaborate rituals, artistic installations, community gatherings and festivities that draw people from across India and abroad.

Modi's message placed particular emphasis on compassion, hope, peace and prosperity, extending the spirit of the occasion beyond religious observance to convey a broader appeal for harmony and collective well-being. His greeting came as devotees prepared to welcome Goddess Durga during the upcoming celebrations, which hold immense spiritual and cultural significance, particularly in West Bengal.

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