Margashirsha Amavasya is considered a significant day for the Hindus, which is dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva, self-purification, and acts of charity and virtue.
On this day, Shani puja is also performed, which is believed to mitigate Saturn's negative effect.
Margashirsha Amavasya 2025 Date & Time
According to the Vedic calendar, Margashirsha Amavasya in 2025 will begin at 9:13 AM on 19 November 2025 and will end at 12:16 PM on 20 November 2025.
In Hinduism, the concept of Udayatithi is important, and therefore, in 2025, Margashirsha Amavasya will be observed on 20 November 2025.
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Significance of Margashirsha Amavasya
Amavasya is considered a symbol of new beginnings. On Margashirsha Amavasya, through meditation, chanting, devotees can establish a deep connection with God.
This day is also considered ideal for self-reflection, remembering ancestors, and correcting one’s mistakes.
Taking a holy dip in sacred rivers on Margashirsha Amavasya is considered extremely auspicious. On this day, practitioners worship the Sun God, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Krishna.
It is said that worshipping with a true heart and performing rituals such as Tarpan, Pind Daan, and charity on this day removes all sufferings and brings blessings from ancestors.
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Margashirsha Amavasya Rituals and Practices
On Margashirsha Amavasya, a few of the rituals that are performed are-
- Holy Bath: Devotees on this day take an early morning bath, preferably in the sacred river or use water mixed with Ganga Jal. This is considered to purify the body and soul.
- Fasting: Many people observe a fast (full or partial) on this day. This helps focus the mind and helps in engaging spiritually.
- Worship Deities: Clean the house, light a lamp, offer tulsi leaves, yellow flowers, fruits, etc to Vishnu/Lakshmi. Recitation of Vishnu Sahasranama or Gayatri Mantra is also suggested.
- Ancestor Homage: Devotees perform rituals like Tarpan and Pind Daan on sacred riverbanks to honor their ancestors
- Avoid new beginnings: As Amavasya is considered a no-moon day, and considered inauspicious for house-warming or any new business launch.
- Reflection and Silence: Because the moon is absent in the sky, the day is symbolically suited for inner reflection, quietude, and meditative practices. As there is no moon on Margashirsha Amavasya, the day is considered for inner reflection, quietude, and meditative practices.
- Charitable Acts: Donating food, clothing, and other essentials is considered to bring good karma.
It is also recommended to avoid a few activities on Margashirsha Amavasya, such as:
- Avoid any new beginnings,
- Avoid negative thoughts, anger, and arguments.
- Do not consume non-vegetarian food or alcohol.
- Avoid cutting nails or hair on this day.
- Do not disrespect elders or ancestors.
FAQs
1. What exactly is an “Amavasya”?
Amavasya is considered the “no-moon” day. It is the lunar phase when the moon is not visible. In the Hindu lunar calendar, Amavasya is the last day of the Krishna (waning) Paksha of a month.
2. Why is ancestor worship (Pitru Puja) emphasised on this day?
It is believed that on this Amavasya, the link with the ancestors is strong. By performing rituals like Tarpan, Pind Daan, etc, one brings peace to the departed soul.
3. Can I perform new tasks, house-moving, or marriage on this day?
Generally, Amavasya days are considered less favourable for very new auspicious undertakings. The focus is on purification, worship, and reflection rather than new beginnings.
5. Is Margashirsha Amavasya good or bad?
Margashirsha Amavasya is considered auspicious. It’s ideal for prayers, charity, and remembering ancestors. While new beginnings are avoided, on this day.
6. What are the rituals for Shani on Margashirsha Amavasya?
Devotees worship Shani Dev by lighting a sesame oil lamp, offering black sesame seeds, mustard oil, and black cloth; they also feed crows and donate black items.
7. Which month is called the Margashirsha month?
Margashirsha, also known as Agrahayana, is the ninth month of the Hindu lunar calendar, usually falling in November–December. It’s considered sacred, as Lord Krishna declared it his favorite month in the Bhagavad Gita.
8. When is Amavasya in November 2025?
Margashirsha Amavasya is on Thursday, 20 November. The Amavasya Tithi begins at 9:43 AM on 19 November 2025 and ends at 12:16 PM on 20 November 2025.
