Mahalaya 2026 was celebrated on Saturday, October 10, 2026, marking the end of Pitru Paksha and the start of Devi Paksha prior to Durga Puja. Mahalaya 2026: The most recent news and significant takeaways: • Date and Change: Mahalaya, which occurred on October 10, 2026, marked the conclusion of Pitru Paksha's 15-day period (September 26 to October 10) and the start of Devi Paksha. • Radio Broadcasts and Traditions: At daybreak, millions of people tuned into the renowned All India Radio Akashvani transmission of Mahishasura Mardini, voiced by Birendra Krishna Bhadra. • West Bengal Weather: The India Meteorological Department predicted light rain and thunderstorms in Kolkata and other parts of South Bengal on Mahalaya Day, followed by dry weather from October 11 to 13. • Political and Cultural Events: The Eden Gardens was the venue of a mega Mahalaya event organized by the West Bengal government, which made news because it was a rare non-sporting event at the stadium and prime-ministerial and ministerial attendance drew news attention. • Television Specials: Mahalaya programming on Bengali television channels included Abhayashakti Yuge Yuge Aparajita (marking Ditipriya Roy's debut as Goddess Durga on Sun Bangla) and Colors Bangla's Shaktiswarupa Mahadurga, starring Payel De. • Dates for Durga Puja: The principal Durga Puja celebration begins on October 16, 2026, with Maha Shashthi and ends on October 21, 2026, with Vijayadashami, following Mahalaya. Do you want information on the Durga Puja pandal themes for 2026 or the schedule for Maha Saptami through Vijayadashami?