Amavasya, also known as the 'New Moon Day' or 'No Moon Day,' is a significant Hindu tithi that marks the beginning of the Shukla Paksha, or bright fortnight. It is considered a powerful celestial event, leading to various traditions and rituals observed by Hindus across India during this period. During the month of Chaitra, Amavasya is referred to as Chaitra Amavasya and usually falls in March or April.
Month | Date | Day | Vrat Name |
---|---|---|---|
January |
11 January, 2024 |
Thursday |
Darsha Amavasya, Darshavela Amavasya, Paush Amavasya |
February |
09 February, 2024 |
Friday |
Darsha Amavasya, Magha Amavasya, Mauni Amavas |
March |
10 March, 2024 |
Sunday |
Chhoti Holi, Holika Dahan, Phalguna Purnima, Vasanta Purnima |
April |
08 April, 2024 |
Monday |
Chaitra Amavasya, Darsha Amavasya |
May |
08 May, 2024 |
Wednesday |
Darsha Amavasya, Vaishakha Amavasya |
June |
06 June, 2024 |
Thursday |
Darsha Bhavuka Amavasya, Jyeshtha Amavasya, Shani Jayanti, Vat Savitri Vrat |
July |
05 July, 2024 |
Friday |
Ashadha Amavasya, Darsha Amavasya |
August |
04 August, 2024 |
Sunday |
Darsha Amavasya, Shravana Amavasya |
September |
02 September, 2024 |
Monday |
Bhadrapada Amavasya, Darsha Amavasya, Pithori Amavasya |
October |
02 October, 2024 |
Wednesday |
Ashwin Amavasya, Sarva Pitru Amavasya, Sarvapitri Darsha Amavasya |
November |
01 November, 2024 |
Friday |
Darsha Amavasya, Diwali, Kartika Amavasya, Lakshmi Puja, Kedar Gauri Vrat, Chopda Puja, Sharda Puja, Bengal Kali Puja, Diwali Snan, Diwali Devpuja |
December |
01 December, 2024 |
Sunday |
Darsha Amavasya, Margashirsha Amavasya |
December |
30 December, 2024 |
Monday |
Darsha Amavasya, Darshavela Amavasya, Paush Amavasya |
In Hindu tradition, Poornima or Full Moon holds immense significance in the lunar calendar. Revered as a symbol of auspiciousness, it aligns with various Hindu festivals, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness. This sacred day is marked by special rituals such as Satyanarayan Pooja, inviting blessings and illumination into one's life.
Amavasya is often considered inauspicious in many cultures due to the energies present during this time that can affect physical and mental well-being. However, it is also seen as an opportunity for prayer and offerings to counter any negativity. Some people avoid working or engaging in auspicious activities on Amavasya while others fast to seek blessings from their ancestors and invite success and happiness into their lives.
According to the Garuda Purana, Lord Vishnu mentioned that Amavasya is when ancestors visit Earth and ignoring their presence may displease them. Therefore, prayers to Lord Vishnu on Amavasya are believed to fulfill desires and bring blessings.
Several festivals coincide with Amavasya, with Diwali being the most prominent one. Diwali falls on a no-moon night when negative energies are said to be strong, but they are countered by lighting diyas and candles.
Some important dates associated with Amavasya are: