Honoring the Ancestors
Amavasya (New Moon) is dedicated to the forefathers. The fast is often observed to seek their blessings and peace. Somvati Amavasya (Monday New Moon) is particularly famous, linked to the story of Bhishma and the interactive narration of the Peepal tree worship.
Spiritual Benefit: Peace of mind, removal of negative karma, and divine blessings.
Allowed (Satvik)
- Fruits
- Milk
Restricted (Tamasic)
- Grains (often avoided until afternoon)
- Non-veg (Strictly forbidden)
- Onion/Garlic
Fasting Variants
Pitru Tarpan: Fasting until water offering (Tarpan) is completed.
Feeding cows, dogs, and crows is essential.
Step-by-Step Worship
- Take a holy dip in a river if possible.
- Offer water mixed with black sesame seeds to the sun and ancestors (Tarpan).
- Light a lamp under a Peepal tree and circle it 108 times (Somvati).
- Donate food and clothes to Brahmins or the poor.
Mantra to Chant
Om Pitru Devataaya Namah
Required Samagri
Black sesame, Water, White flowers, Kusha grass
Breaking the Fast (Parana)
Break the fast after completing Tarpan and donations, usually in the afternoon.
Timing Note: Avoid traveling or starting new auspicious works on this day.