As Mahalaya Amavasya is around the corner, let us know some basic rituals and timings of this year.
Mahalaya Amavasya, also known as Sarvapitri Amavasya, Pitru Amavasya, or Pitra Moksha Amavasya, is a very auspicious day in the Hindu calendar when people commemorate and remember their ancestors. This hallowed day marks the completion of Shradh or Pitru Paksha, a 16-day period in which Hindus perform rituals to honour their forefathers.
This annual commemoration is deeply religious, as Mahalaya Amavasya is the last chance to present prayers and food to ancestors, symbolising thanks and respect. Aside from its spiritual significance, the day marks the start of the festive season, particularly Durga Puja, one of the most famous festivals in Hindu culture.
This year, the Hindu festival of Mahalaya Amavasya will be commemorated on Wednesday, October 2. On Mahalaya Amavasya, traditions begin with an early bath and housecleaning. Male family members welcome Brahmins to their homes, while women prepare Sattvik meals.
Tarpan is conducted by both men and women, and Brahmins are provided food as a metaphor of feeding the ancestors. Following the dinner, Brahmins are given garments, shoes, and dakshina, and family members receive blessings. Cows, dogs, and crows are fed leftover food before the family eats.
Mahalaya Amavasya, one of the most venerated days in the Hindu calendar, has profound religious and spiritual significance because it occurs during Pitru Paksha. This major Amavasya takes place in the month of Ashwina and is also known as Sarva Pitri Amavasya.
According to Hindu texts, this is the day when deceased family members, or Pitru, return to their kingdom, Pitru Loka. It is thought that by worshipping them with dedication on this day, ancestors bestow happiness and well-being upon their offspring before returning to Pitru Loka.
Here’s the timing of Mahalaya Amavasya 2024:
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Amavasya Tithi Begins – 09:39 PM, October 1, 2024
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Amavasya Tithi Ends – 12:18 AM, October 3, 2024
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Qutup Muhurta – From 11:12 AM To 12:00 PM, October 2, 2024
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Rauhin Muhurta – From 12:00 PM To 12:47 PM, October 2, 2024
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Madhyahna Time – From 12:47 PM To 03:11 PM, October 2, 2024