Mahalaya Amavasya, also known as Sarva Pitru Amavasya or Pitru Paksha Amavasya, is a significant date in the Hindu calendar that marks the conclusion of Pitru Paksha, a 15-day period dedicated to honouring ancestors. In 2024, Mahalaya Amavasya will be observed on October 2.
Date and Timing
The Amavasya Tithi begins on October 1, 2024, at 09:39 PM and ends on October 3, 2024, at 12:18 AM. The auspicious timings for performing rituals include Kutup Muhurat from 11:12 AM to 12:00 PM, Rauhin Muhurat from 12:00 PM to 12:47 PM, and Madhyahna Time from 12:47 PM to 03:11 PM on October 2, 2024.
Significance
Mahalaya Amavasya holds great religious and spiritual significance among Hindus. It is a day dedicated to worshipping and remembering one's ancestors. According to Hindu beliefs, during Pitru Paksha, the souls of the departed ancestors visit their descendants, and performing rituals on Mahalaya Amavasya is particularly auspicious as it aids in achieving peace and salvation for these souls.
This day also marks the beginning of the festive season, especially the onset of Durga Puja celebrations, particularly in West Bengal. It is believed that Goddess Durga begins her journey to Earth on this day, bringing joy and blessings to her devotees.
Rituals and Observances
The most important rituals performed during Mahalaya Amavasya include Tarpan and Shradh. Tarpan involves offering water mixed with sesame seeds, barley, and flowers to ancestors. Shradh includes feeding Brahmins, offering food to crows (considered messengers of the ancestors), and donating to the needy in the name of one's forefathers.
In regions like Gaya, Varanasi, and Haridwar, people perform Pind Daan, offering rice balls (Pinda) to departed souls. This ritual is believed to provide nourishment and peace to the ancestors, assisting them in attaining salvation.
Many devotees observe a fast on Mahalaya Amavasya to purify their body and soul while focusing on the rituals. This fast often excludes non-vegetarian food, garlic, and onions. Acts of charity, such as donating food, clothing, and essentials to those in need, are also important practices on this day.
In West Bengal, a traditional custom is to listen to the recitation of 'Mahishasura Mardini,' an early morning radio program that narrates the story of Goddess Durga's victory over the buffalo demon, Mahishasura. This marks the spiritual beginning of the Durga Puja celebrations.
Spiritual Significance
The spiritual essence of Mahalaya Amavasya lies in the belief that offering prayers and food to ancestors helps pacify their souls, releasing them from suffering in the afterlife. Those who neglect these rituals may face obstacles in their lives, attributed to the unfulfilled desires of their ancestors. By performing these rituals with devotion, devotees seek forgiveness for any shortcomings in honouring their forefathers and seek blessings for happiness, success, and harmony.
