Amavasya, also known as the new moon day, is an important day in the Hindu calendar. It is observed every month when the moon is not visible in the sky. Amavasya is considered a day of introspection and purification, and is a time when people pay homage to their ancestors.
Amavasya 2023 Date And time
| Somvati Amavasya Data | February 20, 2023, Monday |
| Amavasya Tithi begins | 16:18 on February 19, 2023 |
| Amavasya Tithi finishes | 12:35 on February 20, 2023 |
Importance of Amavasya
Amavasya is considered an auspicious day for performing various rituals and ceremonies. It is believed that on this day the spirits of ancestors descend to the earth to bless their descendants. Therefore, many people perform tarpan or pitru paksha, a ritual to honor their ancestors and seek their blessings. It is also a day to offer prayers to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.
Rituals of Amavasya
On Amavasya day, people wake up early and take a sacred bath. They then offer prayers to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu and perform tarpan for their ancestors. It is also common practice to visit temples and offer flowers, fruits and sweets to the deities.
Amavasya fasting guidelines
Fasting on Amavasya is believed to be highly beneficial for spiritual growth and purification. If you wish to fast on this day, here are some guidelines to follow:
- Choose a particular day to fast on Amavasya and observe it every month.
- Avoid consuming non-vegetarian food, alcohol and tobacco.
- Bathe in the morning and put on clean clothes.
- Recite mantras and offer prayers to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.
- Consume only bland and sattvic food like fruits, milk and nuts.
- Avoid eating grains and lentils.
- Break your fast after dark by eating a simple meal.
- Donate food, clothing or money to the poor and needy.
In conclusion, Amavasya is an important day for Hindus to offer respect and pay homage to their ancestors. By performing tarpan and fasting, people seek the blessings of their ancestors and purify their souls.
Amavasya Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the importance of Amavasya?
Amavasya is considered an auspicious day for performing spiritual and religious practices. It is believed that performing puja, meditation and charity on this day can bring peace, prosperity and happiness. - What are the rituals performed on Amavasya?
People perform various rituals on Amavasya such as performing puja to the ancestors, taking a sacred dip in the river, offering food and charity to the poor and needy, and performing meditation. - Why is Amavasya considered a bad day?
In some cultures, Amavasya is considered a bad day as it is associated with darkness and negativity. Evil spirits and ghosts are believed to be most active on this day and people should avoid starting new ventures or making important decisions. - What are the different types of Amavasya?
There are different types of Amavasya such as Mahalaya Amavasya which is considered an important day for performing pitru tarpan or offerings to ancestors, and Kartik Amavasya which is an important day for performing Tulsi Vivah. - What are the different names of Amavasya in different regions of India?
Amavasya is known by different names in different regions of India. In North India, it is known as Amavas, while in South India, it is known as Amavasya. In Bengal it is known as Amabashya while in Maharashtra it is known as Amavas.
