Photos: Mahalaya marks the end of Pitri Paksh; visuals from Kolkata

As per Hindu tradition, Mahalaya marks the end of Pitri-paksh and start of Devi-paksha- also the first day of Navaratri. Descendants of the deceased pray to Goddess Durga in the name of their ancestors. The offering is known as ‘Tarpan,’ which people here are seen making to their ancestors on the bank of the river Hooghly at Jagannath Ghat in Kolkata.- (Samir Jana/HT PHOTO)

Updated on: Sep 20, 2017 9:55 AM IST

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As per Hindu tradition, Mahalaya marks the end of Pitri-paksh and start of Devi-paksha- also the first day of Navaratri. Descendants of the deceased pray to Goddess Durga in the name of their ancestors. The offering is known as ‘Tarpan,’ which people here are seen making to their ancestors on the bank of the river Hooghly at Jagannath Ghat in Kolkata.- (Samir Jana/HT PHOTO)

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‘Tarpan’ is a ritual practiced by men, who have lost their father and wish to make an offering to their departed ancestors. This is usually done on the first anniversary of their death. It is believed that the ancestors await their ‘Tarpan’ and do not return to their places of rest happy if they are not remembered. (Samir Jana/HT PHOTO)

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There are various postures that accompany the practice of ‘Tarpan,’ namely for the Devas (Gods), Rishis (Sages) and Pitrus (ancestors). For the departed ancestors, the offering is made to flow over the right side of the right palm and the thumb of the right hand. (Samir Jana/HT PHOTO)

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A man gets his head shaved in order as part of a Hindu ritual, which demands this of men who lose their fathers. The performance of ‘Shraadh’ by a son during Pitru Paksh is compulsory in Hinduism in order to make sure that the soul of the ancestor finds peace in heaven. (Samir Jana/HT PHOTO)

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52 year old Hari Chettry, employee of a construction company offered ‘Tarpan’ and prayed to Goddess Durga for his late parents. His two and a half feet long beard nearly stole the show on the banks of the river Hooghly, Jagannath Ghat in Kolkata. (Samir Jana/HT PHOTO)

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Men offer food and water to their departed ancestors on the banks of the river Hooghly at Jagannath Ghat in Kolkata. (Samir Jana/HT PHOTO)

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Just a week after the end of Pitru Paksh, Durga Puja will begin across the country. This also symbolizes the beginning of Devi Paksh. On this day, the goddess is invited by chanting various hymns very early in the morning. (Samir Jana/HT PHOTO)