KUALA LUMPUR, Oct. 20 -- From ushering in the new year to marking historic moments, celebrations across all cultures usually peak with noisy firecrackers and fireworks.

Apart from merry-making though, what else do they signify?

For the Hindus, it is actually a traditional ritual that caps off their ancestors' annual sojourn on Earth and celebrates their return journey to the heavens.

Let's first take a look first at the Mahalaya paksha - the fortnight dedicated to worshipping ancestors - which precedes Deepavali.

What is the 'Mahalaya paksha'?

One month before Deepavali, Hindus dedicate a two-week period called Mahalaya paksha to worship their ancestors.

The fortnight usually occurs during the waning phase of the moon and takes plac...