Amavasya
Also known as: Amavasai, New Moon Day, Amavasi, Amavas
Amavasya Ki Shubhkamnaye
Significance
Amavasya is the no-moon day in the Hindu lunar calendar, representing the darkest night of the month. It is considered highly auspicious for ancestor worship (Pitru Tarpan) and performing rituals for departed souls. The day marks the end of Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) and the beginning of a new lunar cycle. Many Hindus observe fasting and perform charitable acts on this day.
Rituals & Observances
- Perform Tarpan (water offerings) for ancestors
- Visit holy rivers for ritual bath
- Offer Pind Daan for departed souls
- Light oil lamps (diyas) in the evening
- Donate food and clothes to the needy
- Chant mantras for Lord Shiva
- Observe strict fast or eat only one meal
- Avoid starting new ventures
Special Variations
- Special Amavasya at Gaya for Pitru Puja
- Somvati Amavasya (Monday) is extra auspicious
- Mauni Amavasya for silent meditation
- Shani Amavasya (Saturday) for Saturn worship
Traditional Foods
Do's and Don'ts
Do
- Ancestor worship
- Charity
- Meditation
- Temple visits
Don't
- Start new work
- Travel far
- Purchase gold
- Haircuts