The new-moon day (no-moon), sacred for remembering ancestors with offerings (tarpanam).
Amavasai is the new-moon day, when the Moon is entirely dark, occurring once each lunar month. It is the most important day for Tarpanam, the ritual offering of water and black sesame seeds to the ancestors, a duty the Puranas place among the highest.
Each Amavasai has its own name: Aadi Amavasai (in the Tamil month of Aadi), Thai Amavasai (Thai), and Mahalaya Amavasai (Purattasi) are the most significant. Mahalaya Amavasai is the day when offerings are made to all ancestors collectively, not just one's own lineage.
Amavasai is generally considered inauspicious for starting new ventures. However, it is regarded as an exceptionally powerful day for ancestor worship and, in some traditions, for special rituals to dispel negative influences.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Amavasai?
Amavasai is the new-moon day, the day when the Moon is not visible. It occurs once a month and is sacred for remembering ancestors with offerings (tarpanam).
How many Amavasai days are there in a year?
There are 12 or 13 Amavasai days per year, one per lunar month, sometimes two if a month has a leap Amavasai. All dates are listed on the year overview page.
What is tarpanam on Amavasai?
Tarpanam is a ritual offering of water and sesame seeds to the ancestors. It is believed to bring peace to departed souls and blessings to the living family.