Amavasya Dates 2026

Amavasya is the last day of Bahula (Krishna) Paksha each month, the tithi when the Moon is not seen in the sky. It is the most important day to remember the ancestors with tarpanam and charity. In the Telugu panchangam the month ends with Amavasya, and the new month begins with Padyami the next day.

Why Amavasya Matters

"Ama" means together and "vasya" means dwelling; the Sun and Moon are together in the same rashi on this day, hence the name. Texts such as the Garuda Purana say the Pitru Devatas await the tarpanam offered by their descendants on this day. That is why remembering the elders on Amavasya is a custom in every Telugu family.

Special Amavasyas

• Mahalaya Amavasya: Bhadrapada Bahula Amavasya, the end of Pitru Paksha and the most important day of the year for ancestral rites.
• Deepavali Amavasya: Ashwayuja Amavasya, with Lakshmi Puja and the festival of lights.
• Polala Amavasya: Shravana Amavasya, when mothers observe a vratham for their children's welfare.
• Chollangi Amavasya: Pushya Amavasya, known for holy sea baths; the same day is also observed as Mouni Amavasya.
• Somavati Amavasya: An Amavasya falling on a Monday, special for circling the peepal tree and worshipping Shiva.

What to Do on Amavasya

• Take an early bath in a river or a purifying bath at home.
• Offer pitru tarpanam with sesame and water; those who do not know the procedure can simply bow and remember their elders.
• Donate food and clothes to Brahmins and the needy, and feed cows and crows.
• Light a lamp at home in the evening and worship Shiva or Vishnu.
• Some people eat only once and keep to sattvic food.

Observances

Many families avoid starting new auspicious events such as weddings or griha pravesham on Amavasya, though festival Amavasyas like Deepavali are an exception. Some traditions also avoid oil baths and haircuts on this day; customs vary from family to family.

May the blessings of your ancestors keep your family in peace and prosperity.