Ashvin Amavasya 2026 (Shanishchari) — Saturday, 10 October 2026

About this day

Ashvin Amavasya is Sarva Pitru Amavasya, also called Mahalaya Amavasya, the last day of Pitru Paksha, when shraddha is offered for all ancestors, including those whose tithi is not known. Sharad Navratri begins the next day.

An Amavasya on a Saturday is Shanishchari (Shani) Amavasya. Many visit Shani temples, light a mustard-oil lamp under a peepal tree and give to those in need.

How Amavasya is kept

• Where a fast is kept, it is usually a simple one on Darsha Amavasya: a single sattvic meal, or fruit and milk.
• Tarpan — offering water with black sesame and kusha grass to the ancestors — is done late in the morning or around midday, and any family member may do it with sincerity.
• A bath in a river or at a tirtha is a strong tradition, especially on Mauni and Somvati Amavasya; at home, a bath with a little Ganga water carries the same intent.
• Feeding cows, crows, dogs and ants, and giving food, clothing or sesame to those in need, are common Amavasya customs.
• Lighting a lamp in the evening, under a peepal tree or at the household shrine, is widely practised.
• Many keep the day vegetarian and avoid alcohol as a mark of respect.
• If you are elderly, pregnant, diabetic or unwell, there is no need to fast — remembrance and charity are the heart of the day. Speak to a doctor if you are unsure.

Amavasya: the full guide and every date

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