மகாளய அமாவாசை
Mahalaya Amavasai
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Mahalaya Amavasai is the most important day for ancestor worship, falling in Purattasi month. It marks the end of Pitru Paksha - the fortnight dedicated to ancestors.
Significance
The most auspicious day to perform tharpanam for all ancestors. Believed that ancestral souls descend to earth during Pitru Paksha and return after receiving offerings.
Rituals & traditions
Tharpanam· தர்ப்பணம்
Morning
Comprehensive rituals for all ancestors
Anna Dhanam· அன்ன தானம்
Afternoon
Feeding Brahmins and poor
Temple Visit· கோயில் தரிசனம்
After rituals
Visiting Pitru-related temples
How to celebrate
Perform elaborate tharpanam at Rameswaram or sacred rivers. Offer food to Brahmins. Make donations. Visit Rameswaram or Gaya for special rituals. Avoid starting new ventures.
When it happens
New moon in Purattasi (September-October)
Tags
- #mahalaya
- #amavasai
- #ancestors
- #pitru
- #paksha
- #purattasi