Mahalaya 2017: Significance, Tithi and Timings

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New Delhi: Mahalaya marks the beginning of Navaratri and happens to fall on September 19 this year. It is widely believed that on this day, Ma Durga was created by gods to defeat the evil Mahishasura as well as all evil powers on earth. Apart from this, Mahalaya also marks the end of Pitra Paksha as well as the beginning of Devi Paksha. 

Goddess Duga is known to destroy evil and is the symbol of victory of good over evil. Another story that is prevalent about this day is that of Lord Rama. It is believed that he worshipped goddess Durga on this day before he left for Lanka to rescue his wife Sita, who was kidnapped by Ravana. 

The year, the timings are as follows according to durgautsav.com:

Mahalaya Amavasya tarpan begins: 2:22 AM(19th September)

Mahalaya Amavasya tarpan ends: 1:29 AM (20th September)

Kutup Muhurat: 12:30 PM- 1:19 PM (19th September)

Rohina Muhurat:1:19PM - 2:07PM (19th September)

Aaparahna Kal :2:07pm -4:33pm(19th September)

On the day of Mahalaya, people pay homage to their ancestors by offering food, sweets and clothes to Brahmins. Some wake up early in the morning and recite prayers from the scriptures.