The countdown for Durga Puja, the largest religious festival of the country's Hindu community, begins with the celebration of Mahalaya across the country tomorrow (Saturday, October 10, 2026). Various religious and cultural ceremonies will be organized at temples nationwide, including the capital Dhaka, marking the advent of Goddess Durga and the end of Pitru Paksha to welcome Devi Paksha. Dhakeshwari National Temple and Ramna Kali Mandir will host grand morning programs, with high dignitaries including the Indian high commissioner expected to attend.

According to organizers and temple authorities, Goddess Durga arrives this year on a horse (Ghotak) and departs by a boat (Nauka) on Bijaya Dashami on October 21, traditionally signifying abundant crops and rainfall. Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed announced that Durga Puja will be arranged at 33,851 mandaps nationwide—an increase of nearly 1,500 compared to last year—with government funding raised to Tk 5 crore and a newly declared three-day executive holiday stretching the break to five days from October 20 to 24, drawing heartfelt appreciation from community leaders like Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad President Basudeb Dhar and BHBCUC joint secretary general Manindra Kumar Natha.