Mahalaya 2018: As countdown for Durga Puja begins, here's why tarpan is delayed this year

In a few hours, the countdown for Durga Puja will start with Mahalaya. It marks the end of Pitru Paksha and beginning of Devi Paksha. A big part of Mahalaya is to remember the departed souls by offering tarpan. But unlike other years, this time it will not be done early in the morning. 

Mahalaya 2018: Should we be wishing Subho Mahalaya? 

Because,this time according to pundits, the Amavasya tithi is starting late. Normally it starts late at night, but this year the tithi begins around 11 AM. So the ritual can be only done after that. 

Mahalaya Tithi for 2018: 

This year the tithi for Mahalaya is slightly different. So the familiar sight of people thronging to the Ganges early morning will not be seen. Amavasya is starting around 11 AM, so tarpan can be only done after that. 

Mahalaya tarpan starting time: 10.49 AM on Monday 

Mahalaya tarpan end time: 9.08AM on Tuesday. 

Another big part of Mahalaya, which is a perfect way to get into the Puja mood is to listen to  Mahishasur Mardini by Birendra Krishna Bhadra. His iconic baritone once performed live in All India Radio studios, still lingers in the hearts of Bengalis across the globe. They listen to the one and half hour long rendition of the story of how Goddess Durga defeats Mahishashur. It is essentially a triumph of good over evil, of celebrating women power. The theme is still relevant even after so many years owing to its universal appeal.