Darsha Amavasya

Day of Ancestral Worship (Pitri Puja), Spiritual Practices, Fasting

Not a gazetted public holiday; often observed individually or regionally.

One day (the duration of the Amavasya Tithi).

Darsha Amavasya is the day of the New Moon, considered highly auspicious for performing rituals for ancestors (Pitri Tarpan and Shraddha) to seek their blessings and peace for the departed souls. It's also a powerful day for spiritual practices, meditation, and charity.

Key Rituals & Practices

Pitri Tarpan (offering water, sesame seeds to ancestors)

Shraddha rituals (specific ceremonies for the departed)

Fasting (partial or full)

Bathing in holy rivers or sacred ponds

Donations and charity to the needy

Meditation and spiritual practices

Recitation of mantras and prayers

Associated Deities

Pitri Devatas (Ancestors)

Lord Vishnu

Lord Shiva (for some specific observances)

Goddess Kali (for Tantric practices)

Hindu Calendar Details

Hindu Month

Occurs in every Hindu lunar month.

Paksha

Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight)

Tithi

Amavasya (New Moon)

Regional Relevance & Variations

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Historical & Mythological Context

According to Hindu scriptures, Amavasya Tithi is the day when the Pitru Devatas (ancestral spirits) are most accessible. Performing rituals on this day is believed to bring peace to the departed souls and bestow blessings upon the living descendants, clearing obstacles and promoting well-being. It signifies the end of one lunar cycle and the beginning of another, a time for introspection and renewal.

Alternative Names

Amavasya Tithi

New Moon Day

Gregorian Date

Varies annually and monthly. It occurs on the New Moon day.