Wednesday November 19 is Margashirsha Amavasya – the first new moon night after Deepawali, according to the Drika Panchang. This day is important because it marks the completion of one full lunar cycle since the Festival of Lights.
Timing of Margshirsha Amavasya
This year, Margshirsha Amavasya starts at 09:45:09 hrs IST and continues till 12:18:22 IST the next day, according to panchang.astrosage.com.
Although this day does not fall in pitru paksh, it is considered an auspicious occasion to make charitable grants for the welfare of our ancestral spirits. This day is also known to be an auspicious occasion for worshiping Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.
So, if you missed out on donating on behalf of your ancestors during Pitru Paksh, it’s time to rectify that mistake.
On the auspicious occasion of Margashirsha Amavasya, the timing of Amrit Kaal will be from 01:05 AM to 02:53 AM, IST. Also watch out for Rahu Kaal, it will be in operation from 12:06 PM to 1:26 PM IST.
Otherwise, this day is suitable for fasting, reflecting on positive thoughts, surrendering to the mercy of the Almighty and prayer. It is one of the most important new moon days of the year. The spirit of Deepawali may be gone, but the piety of the occasion remains.
Meaning of Margashirsha Amavasya
This day is also known as Agahan Amavasya. According to panchang.astrosage.com, the best way to worship on this day is to bathe in the holy river, offer sesame seeds to the water, chant the gayatri mantra or the name of Bhagwan Vishnu and offer arghya to the Sun.
Another auspicious religious ceremony that can be performed on the day is Satyanarayan Katha. This story celebrates the greatness of Surya Dev.
Frequently asked questions
What is Margashirsha Amavasya?
It is the first new moon night after Deepawali.
