Tarpan - the ritual of offering in memory of forefathers

Mahalaya  is a sacred occasion observed a week before the durgapuja.  This day is of utmost importance for the bengalis. It is celebrated in order to invite Goddess Durga , the supreme power to descend on earth by chanting mantras and singing Devi Maa bhajans till midnight. 

This day is also considered the day of remembrance of departed souls of the family. The ritual of offering "tarpan" in memory of forefather's is commonly practiced on this day. Tarpan is offered on the banks of river ganga by priests for different group of devotees. The rituals start from early dawn and end during midday. it is believed that "tarpan" should be offered empty stomach and one should have food at the same place after completing the ritual.