Bengali Community in Visakhapatnam Celebrates Mahalaya
At dawn, Visakhapatnam’s Bengali community gathered to mark Mahalaya. The day signals the end of Pitru Paksha and the start of Devi Paksha. It also heralds the arrival of Goddess Durga to Earth. Families honor ancestors and prepare for the Durga Puja festivities.
In One Town, home to a large Bengali diaspora, residents visited the Waltair Kali Bari. They performed traditional rituals and attended cultural programs. The main event was ‘Chokkhu Daan,’ the ceremonial painting of Durga’s eyes on clay idols. This ritual symbolizes the awakening of the goddess. Even far from Bengal, these customs connect the community to its roots.
“Mahalaya was more than a ritual; it connected us to our roots,” said Ananya Chatterjee, a long-time resident. “Listening to Mahishasura Mardini on the radio and performing Tarpan reminded us of our traditions and strengthened our bond with our ancestors.”
Priests and scholars leading the rituals highlighted the day’s spiritual meaning. “Mahalaya is not just the start of Durga Puja. It reminds us of the cycle of life, death, and renewal,” said a senior priest at Kali Bari. Historian Dr. Priya Banerjee added, “These rituals connect the community to centuries-old traditions. They teach younger generations devotion, respect for ancestors, and cultural continuity.”
The celebrations included devotional songs, dance performances, and mythological recitations. Children, youth, and elders joined together. The activities ensured that Mahalaya’s essence—devotion, culture, and community—was passed on.
For many, the day reflected the triumph of good over evil. It also highlighted the values of family, community, and spirituality. “Even though we were away from Bengal, celebrating Mahalaya together gave us a feeling of home,” said cultural organizer Ritu Sengupta. “It kept our culture alive and taught the younger generation the importance of our traditions.”
As Visakhapatnam marked Mahalaya, the Bengali community reaffirmed its commitment to preserving its heritage. The day signaled the spiritual start of Durga Puja. It also celebrated togetherness, music, dance, and devotion. Culture and community thrive wherever they are nurtured.