Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday greeted people on Mahalaya celebrations, observed a week before the five-day Durga Puja and essentially heralding the homecoming of the goddess.
"To all those celebrating, Shubho Mahalaya. May this festive season bring even more joy and prosperity in our lives," the prime minister said, according to an official release.
The day signifies the end of "pitri paksha" (the fortnight when Hindus pay homage to their ancestors) and the beginning of "debi paksha" (period of the goddess).