In the Hindu lunar calendar, Amavasya is the night of the New Moon. It marks the transition between the waning phase (Krishna Paksha) and the waxing phase (Shukla Paksha). While it is a night of physical darkness, it is spiritually considered a powerful time for inner reflection and honoring one's lineage.
🌟 Spiritual Significance
- Pitru Puja: Amavasya is dedicated to our ancestors. Performing Tarpan (offering water and sesame seeds) on this day is believed to appease the souls of the departed and bring peace to the family.
- Spiritual Rebirth: It is viewed as a "blank slate" day, ideal for meditation, mantra chanting, and breaking free from negative habits.
- Charity (Daan): Donating food and clothes to the needy on Amavasya is said to bring immense spiritual merit (Punya).
📅 Amavasya Dates Calendar 2026
Below are the Amavasya dates for the year 2026. Timings may vary slightly based on your location (IST provided):
| Month | Date | Day of the Week | Special Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | January 18, 2026 | Sunday | Thai Amavasai (Tamil Nadu) |
| February | February 17, 2026 | Tuesday | Mauni Amavasya |
| March | March 18, 2026 | Wednesday | Phalguna Amavasya |
| April | April 17, 2026 | Friday | Chaitra Amavasya |
| May | May 16, 2026 | Saturday | Shani Amavasya |
| June | June 15, 2026 | Monday | Somvati Amavasya |
| July | July 14, 2026 | Tuesday | Ashadha Amavasya |
| August | August 12, 2026 | Wednesday | Aadi Amavasai (Tamil Nadu) |
| September | September 11, 2026 | Friday | Bhadrapada Amavasya |
| October | October 10, 2026 | Saturday | Mahalaya Amavasya |
| November | November 9, 2026 | Monday | Somvati Amavasya / Diwali |
| December | December 8, 2026 | Tuesday | Margashirsha Amavasya |
🕯️ Important Rituals to Follow
- Take a holy dip (Snanam) in a river or add a drop of Ganga Jal to your bath water.
- Perform Tarpanam for ancestors during the afternoon.
- Observe a fast or eat a simple Satvik meal (avoiding onion and garlic).
- Light an oil lamp (Deepam) in the evening to dispel darkness and welcome positive energy.
- Chant the "Gayatri Mantra" or "Om Namo Narayanaya" for mental peace.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Somvati Amavasya?
When an Amavasya falls on a Monday (Soma-vaar), it is called Somvati Amavasya. It is considered highly auspicious for women to pray for the well-being of their families and for devotees to take holy dips in sacred rivers.
Can we start new work on Amavasya?
In many traditional Hindu cultures, Amavasya is reserved for spiritual tasks and ancestral rites. Therefore, starting major new business ventures or traveling long distances is usually avoided in favor of internal reflection.
Why is Mahalaya Amavasya so special?
Mahalaya Amavasya is the most significant day for Pitru Puja. It concludes the 15-day Pitru Paksha period, and it is believed that all ancestors visit their descendants on this day to accept offerings.
⚠️ Note: Tithi timings (start and end times) depend on the lunar position and may span across two calendar dates. Always consult a local Panchangam for precise ritual timings.
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