Mahalaya Amavasya is considered a highly significant day in the Hindu calendar. This year, it is even more special as Mahalaya Amavasya falls on Saturday, October 10, 2026. Mahalaya Amavasya is dedicated to remembering and honouring departed ancestors. Observed during the waning phase of the Purattasi month, it is believed that the souls of ancestors visit their families and bless them on this day. Devotees offer pinda daan, water, food, and prayers to help their ancestors attain peace and liberation from suffering. This day is also an opportunity to express gratitude for the blessings and heritage received from our ancestors. Devotees are encouraged to perform certain rituals to receive their ancestors’ blessings and overcome misfortune.
Recipes for Mahalaya Amavasya: Sarrkkarai Pongal, Payasam, Medu Vadai, Sambar, Vazhaikkai varuval, Beans Poriyal
Amavasya Tithi Start and End Time
Amavasya tithi begins: Friday, 9 October, 9:38 pm
Amavasya tithi ends: Saturday, 10 October, 9:20 pm
Offer Water and Black Sesame to Your Ancestors
On Mahalaya Amavasya, offering water mixed with black sesame to one’s ancestors is considered highly auspicious. This simple ritual is believed to help remove the negative effects of past karma and bring peace to departed souls.
The ritual should be performed sincerely, with devotion and gratitude while remembering your loved ones.
Perform Pinda Daan with Devotion
Pinda daan is a sacred ritual in which rice balls prepared with sesame, ghee, and honey are offered to the ancestors. Performing this ritual on Mahalaya Amavasya is believed to help free ancestors from suffering and support their spiritual progress.
More important than performing the ritual perfectly is carrying it out with love, faith, and devotion.
Donate Food and Essential Items to the Needy
Performing charitable acts on Mahalaya Amavasya is considered very important. Offering food, clothing, or other essential items to the poor is believed to please one’s ancestors and bring blessings to the family. These acts of kindness reflect compassion and allow you to honour the memory of your ancestors by helping those in need.
Light a Lamp Before Your Ancestors’ Photographs
Lighting a lamp with ghee or sesame oil in front of your ancestors’ photographs is a meaningful way to express respect and gratitude. The flame symbolises hope, remembrance, and spiritual connection.
On Mahalaya Amavasya, sit quietly, meditate, and pray sincerely for the peace, liberation, and blessings of your ancestors.
Chant Sacred Mantras
Chanting sacred mantras such as “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” or reading holy texts such as the Garuda Purana and Vishnu Sahasranama is believed to bring spiritual protection and blessings.
Spending time in prayer and reflection on Mahalaya Amavasya can help strengthen your spiritual connection with your ancestors.
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