Vaishakha Amavasya 2026

Vaishakha Amavasya: A Sacred Day for Ancestor Offerings

Vaishakha Amavasya is the new moon that ends the Bahula Paksha of the Vaishakha month. The scriptures hold that tarpanam for ancestors, charity and a holy bath on this day bring special merit. The Jyeshtha month begins on the following day.

What Makes This Amavasya Special

The whole of Vaishakha is considered a holy month dear to Lord Madhava, and its closing Amavasya carries special importance. In the North Indian Purnimanta calendar this same day is called Jyeshtha Amavasya and is observed as Shani Jayanti and Vat Savitri Vrat. For this reason many Telugu devotees also worship Lord Shani on this day and light a lamp with sesame oil.

What to Do

• Bathe early in a river, or at home with a few drops of Ganga water added.
• Offer tarpanam to the ancestors with sesame seeds, darbha grass and water.
• As it is peak summer, donate water, buttermilk, umbrellas, footwear or hand fans.
• Light a sesame oil lamp near a peepal tree or at the doorstep in the evening.
• Feed crows and cows, and give food to the needy.

Customs to Follow

Many families eat only satvik food on Amavasya, and some take just one meal. Those performing pitru karyam avoid non-vegetarian food and alcohol. New ventures and auspicious events are usually not started on Amavasya. Customs vary from family to family.

Blessings

Offerings made on Vaishakha Amavasya are believed to satisfy the ancestors, whose blessings then reach the family. Giving water and shade to the thirsty in the summer heat is also a great act of service.

For Those Who Worship Lord Shani

Devotees of Lord Shani light a sesame oil lamp and donate black sesame seeds or urad dal on this day. Reciting the Shani Stotram or Hanuman Chalisa is also common. These are optional customs that depend on family tradition.

May the blessings of our ancestors bring peace and prosperity to every home.