Mahalaya Amavasya 2026: Date, Muhurat, Significance & Rituals

Mahalaya Amavasya, also known as Sarvapitri Amavasya or Pitru Moksha Amavasya, is the most significant day in the Hindu calendar for honoring ancestors. It marks the culmination of the 16-day Pitru Paksha period and the beginning of Devi Paksha (Navratri).

On this day, Shradh and Tarpan rituals are performed for all ancestors, known or unknown, and for those whose death anniversaries have been forgotten. It is believed that offering water and food to the Pitrs (ancestors) on this day liberates them and brings peace, prosperity, and blessings to the family.

Mahalaya Amavasya 2026 Date & Muhurat

In 2026, Mahalaya Amavasya falls on Saturday, October 10, 2026. This day is critical for performing Shradh for all departed souls.

*Note: Timings are based on Indian Standard Time (IST). Please consult a local Pandit for exact local muhurat.

Significance of Mahalaya Amavasya

Mahalaya Amavasya holds a dual significance:

• Ancestral Liberation: It is the last opportunity in the year to offer Shradh to ancestors. It is believed that on this day, the souls return to their abode (Pitru Loka) after spending 15 days on Earth. Satisfying them ensures their blessings for the family’s well-being.
• Welcome to Goddess Durga: In Bengal and other parts of India, Mahalaya marks the descent of Goddess Durga to Earth. It is celebrated by listening to the Mahishasura Mardini broadcast at dawn, signaling the start of the festive season.

The Legend of Karna

The tradition of Shradh is linked to the Mahabharata warrior Karna. After his death, when Karna reached heaven, he was offered gold and jewels as food. He asked Indra the reason, and Indra replied that while Karna had donated gold all his life, he never offered food to his ancestors. Karna was allowed to return to Earth for 16 days to perform Shradh and donate food. This period became known as Pitru Paksha, ending on Mahalaya Amavasya.

Key Rituals: How to Perform Tarpan at Home?

While it is best to perform these rituals with a Pandit, here are the basic steps for a simple Tarpan at home:

1. Cleanliness: Wake up early, take a bath, and wear clean (preferably white) clothes.
2. Preparation: Invite a Brahmin for food. Prepare a meal that includes kheer, puri, and vegetables beloved by your ancestors.
3. Tarpan: Offer water mixed with black sesame seeds (Til), barley, and Kusha grass to the ancestors while facing South.
4. Pind Daan: Offer balls of cooked rice and ghee to the souls.
5. Feeding: Offer food to a cow, dog, crow, and ants. Finally, serve food to the Brahmin and seek his blessings.

Book Amavasya Tarpan with SmartPuja

SmartPuja offers hassle-free puja services for Mahalaya Amavasya. Our package includes:

• ✅ Vedic Pandit: Experienced Purohits for all communities (North Indian, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Bengali, etc.).
• ✅ Puja Samagri: We bring all necessary items (Kusha grass, Til, etc.).
• ✅ Checklist: We provide a simple list of household items you need to keep ready.

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