Amavasya 2026: All New Moon Dates, Significance & Rituals

Complete list of all Amavasya (new moon) dates in 2026, their significance, ancestral rituals, and what to do on each dark moon night.

Amavasya and Ancestral Rituals

Amavasya is the most significant day for performing Pitru Tarpan (ancestral water offering) and Shraddha rituals. Hindu tradition holds that ancestors are closest to the living world on Amavasya. Regular ancestral offerings on this day keep family lineages protected and ensure ancestral blessings for health, prosperity, and peace. The most important of all Amavasyas for this purpose is Mahalaya Amavasya (September 21, 2026).

Frequently Asked Questions

What are all Amavasya dates in 2026?

Amavasya (new moon) dates in 2026: January 29 (Mauni Amavasya, Maghi), February 28 (Phalguna Amavasya), March 29 (Chaitra Amavasya), April 27 (Vaishakha Amavasya), May 27 (Jyeshtha Amavasya, Shani Jayanti), June 25 (Ashadha Amavasya), July 24 (Shravan Amavasya), August 23 (Bhadrapada Amavasya), September 21 (Mahalaya Amavasya/Pitru Amavasya), October 21 (Kartik Amavasya/Diwali), November 20 (Margashirsha Amavasya), December 19 (Paush Amavasya). Verify with local panchang.

What is Mauni Amavasya 2026?

Mauni Amavasya 2026 falls on January 29, 2026. Also called Maghi Amavasya, this is the Amavasya in the Magha month which coincides with the Prayagraj Magh Mela. Millions take a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam on this day. 'Mauni' means silent, and many devotees observe a vow of silence (Maun Vrat) on this day, believing it multiplies spiritual merit.

What is Pitru Amavasya (Mahalaya Amavasya) in 2026?

Mahalaya Amavasya 2026 (also called Sarvapitru Amavasya) falls on September 21, 2026. This is the most important Amavasya for performing Shraddha (ancestral rituals). It falls on the last day of Pitru Paksha (16 days of ancestral remembrance). Those who do not know the death date of their ancestors can perform Shraddha on this day for all ancestors.

What is Diwali Amavasya 2026?

Kartik Amavasya (October 21, 2026) coincides with Diwali 2026. On this darkest night of the year, diyas (oil lamps) are lit to drive away darkness and welcome Goddess Lakshmi. Lakshmi Puja is performed at night during this Amavasya. It is also auspicious for performing ancestral Shraddha on this dark moon night.

What should be done on Amavasya?

On Amavasya: Offer jal (water) to the Sun at sunrise, offer Tarpan (water offering) to ancestors, visit a Shiva temple, fast (optional), avoid haircuts, nail cutting, and starting new ventures. Light a lamp under a Peepal tree. Feed crows (who represent ancestors in Hindu tradition). Donate food to the needy. Chant Mahamrityunjaya Mantra and Pitru Tarpan mantras.

Why is Amavasya associated with ancestors?

In Hindu tradition, Amavasya (new moon) is strongly associated with Pitru Loka (realm of ancestors). The Moon is connected to the mind and, on Amavasya, its energy is at its lowest, creating a favorable condition for connection with the ancestral realm. Regular Tarpan and Pind Daan on Amavasya is believed to liberate ancestors and bring their blessings.

Can we do auspicious activities on Amavasya?

Generally, Amavasya is not considered auspicious for new beginnings, marriages, or major investments. However, Shiv Puja, ancestral rituals (Shraddha, Tarpan), temple visits, and charity are highly meritorious on this day. Diwali is the one exception where Lakshmi Puja on Amavasya is considered extremely auspicious.

What is the difference between Amavasya and Amavasi?

Amavasya and Amavasi are the same thing, just spelled differently. 'Amavasya' is the standard Sanskrit/Hindi spelling. 'Amavasi' is a regional pronunciation used in South India (Telugu, Tamil, Kannada). Both refer to the new moon (no-moon) day, the darkest night of the lunar month, occurring once every 29-30 days.

Which Amavasya is best for Shani Puja in 2026?

Every Amavasya is auspicious for Shani Puja, but Shani Amavasya (when Amavasya falls on Saturday) is especially powerful. In 2026, check if any of the 12 Amavasyas falls on a Saturday. Additionally, May 27, 2026 (Jyeshtha Amavasya) coincides with Shani Jayanti (Saturn's birthday), making it extremely auspicious for Shani worship.