Amrutkaal अमृतकाल
Hindu Festival

Mahalaya

महालय
Next · 11 September 2026 · Amavasya of Ashvina — end of Pitru Paksha, dawn of Devi Paksha
97
days until Mahalaya

Shubh Muhurat

Full panchang, Rahu Kaal, and muhurat windows will be available closer to 11 September 2026.

We compute auspicious time windows with Swiss Ephemeris when the festival falls within our 38-day panchang window.

Significance

Mahalaya is the last day of Pitru Paksha and the dawn of Devi Paksha. In Bengal it heralds Durga Puja — devotees rise before dawn to hear the radio broadcast of Mahalaya by Birendra Krishna Bhadra, reciting Mahishasura Mardini.

Rituals & Traditions

Upcoming dates

Observed by: Hindus

Frequently asked questions

When is Mahalaya?

Mahalaya is next observed on 11 September 2026. The festival follows amavasya of ashvina — end of pitru paksha, dawn of devi paksha.

What is Mahalaya?

Mahalaya is the last day of Pitru Paksha and the dawn of Devi Paksha. In Bengal it heralds Durga Puja — devotees rise before dawn to hear the radio broadcast of Mahalaya by Birendra Krishna Bhadra, reciting Mahishasura Mardini.

Who observes Mahalaya?

Mahalaya is observed by Hindus.