Mahalaya Amavasya is a time for remembering and expressing gratitude to the ancestors, thanking them for their guidance and blessings. Mahalaya Amavasya, also known as Pitru Paksha Amavasya or Sarva Pitru Amavasya, is a significant day in the Hindu calendar. It marks the culmination of Pitru Paksha, a 15-day period dedicated to honoring and paying homage to one's ancestors, also known as Pitris.
In 2024, Mahalaya Amavasya will be observed on October 2, 2024. This day holds immense spiritual and cultural importance, as it is believed that during Mahalaya Amavasya, the ancestors bless their descendants for health, prosperity, and well-being. It also heralds the beginning of the festive season, especially the arrival of Durga Puja, which starts just after Mahalaya.
Significance of Mahalaya Amavasya Mahalaya Amavasya is a time for remembering and expressing gratitude to the ancestors, thanking them for their guidance and blessings. According to Hindu belief, the souls of the departed stay in Pitru Loka, a realm between the heavens and the earth, and during Pitru Paksha, they come down to visit their descendants. Performing rituals on Mahalaya Amavasya is considered especially auspicious as it is believed that it helps in attaining peace and salvation for the departed souls.
Mahalaya is also connected to the beginning of Durga Puja celebrations in West Bengal and other parts of India. It is said that on this day, Goddess Durga begins her journey to the earth, bringing joy and bles.
