Chaitra Amavasya 2026

Chaitra Amavasya: The First New Moon of the Telugu Year

The Telugu calendar follows the amavasyanta month system, so Chaitra Amavasya is the new moon at the end of the Bahula Paksha of the Chaitra month. The Vaishakha month begins the next day. It is a sacred day to remember the ancestors with tarpanam and to give charity.

Importance of Amavasya

The shastras describe every Amavasya as dear to the Pitru Devatas. On this day the Sun and Moon are in the same rashi. Since Chaitra is the first month of the year, Chaitra Amavasya is the first new moon of the Telugu year that began with Ugadi, and families see it as a chance to remember their elders and seek their blessings. As summer heat builds up at this time, elders say giving water, buttermilk and panakam in charity is especially meritorious.

How to Observe

• Wake up early and bathe, in a river if possible, or at home remembering Ganga.
• Offer tarpanam to the ancestors with sesame seeds and water before midday, following your family's tradition.
• Feeding crows and giving fodder to cows is considered pleasing to the ancestors.
• Light a lamp to your family deity and worship Lord Shiva or Lord Vishnu.
• Some families light a lamp under a peepal (raavi) tree in the evening and circumambulate it.
• Donate food, water, buttermilk, umbrellas or footwear to those in need.

Observances

Some people eat only one meal on Amavasya. Many families eat sattvic food and avoid starting new auspicious work on this day. Fasting should only be done as health permits.

It is believed that tarpanam and charity on Chaitra Amavasya bring the blessings of the ancestors, along with peace and progress for the family.

Sharing stories of the family's elders with children is also a meaningful way to remember the ancestors on this day.

May the blessings of your elders always protect your family.