Amavasya is the new moon day — the fifteenth and final tithi of the Krishna Paksha, when the moon is not visible in the sky. In the Hindu tradition it is chiefly a day for honouring the ancestors (pitru) through tarpanam and shraddha, and for quiet spiritual practice rather than celebration. Because the moon governs the mind, the no-moon night is regarded as a time for inward reflection and restraint.

Ancestor Worship

The most important observance on Amavasya is the offering of tarpanam — water with black sesame — to departed ancestors, and the performance of monthly shraddha where family tradition requires it. Feeding the needy, giving in charity, and remembering elders are central to the day. Many families avoid beginning major new ventures on Amavasya, reserving it instead for remembrance and simple worship.

The Notable Amavasyas of the Year

Several new moons are major observances: Mahalaya (Peddala) Amavasya concludes Pitru Paksha; Deepavali Amavasya (Ashwayuja) is the exception where Goddess Lakshmi is joyfully worshipped at night; Mauni Amavasya in Magha is a great day of silent holy bathing; Bhogi/Chukkala Amavasya and the Karthika Amavasya carry their own regional significance. Each combines the ancestor theme with a distinct deity or event.

How the App Tracks Amavasya

The new moon shifts date each Gregorian year with the lunar cycle. Mana Panchangam calculates the Amavasya tithi astronomically and shows its exact date and timing, along with the associated observance — helping families plan tarpanam, shraddha, and vratas correctly without guesswork.