Mahalaya Amavasya 2024: In Hinduism, Mahalaya Amavasya holds immense significance. It is also referred to as Sarva Pitru Moksha Amavasya, a day considered crucial as it marks the departure of Goddess Durga from Mount Kailash.
The arrival of Goddess Durga is signified by Mahalaya, marking the beginning of the Durga Puja festival. Here is everything you need to know about Mahalaya Amavasya 2024, including its importance, date, and auspicious timings.
When is Mahalaya Amavasya 2024?
Mahalaya Amavasya will be observed on October 2, 2024. According to the Hindu calendar, it signifies the end of Pitru Paksha (the fortnight dedicated to paying respects to ancestors) and the onset of Shardiya Navratri.
The Amavasya Tithi begins at 09:38 PM on October 1, 2024, and ends at 12:19 AM on October 2, 2024.
Mahalaya Amavasya 2024 Shradh Timings:
Kutup Muhurat: 11:46 AM to 12:34 PM
Rohin Muhurat: 12:34 PM to 1:21 PM
Aparahna Kaal: 1:21 PM to 3:43 PM
Connection Between Mahalaya Amavasya and Navratri
The word 'Mahalaya' translates to the 'great residence of the Goddess.' After performing the Shraddha rituals for ancestors on Sarva Pitru Amavasya, the souls of the ancestors return to their world, and Goddess Durga begins her journey back to Earth. This event is referred to as Mahalaya, symbolising the Goddess's arrival, after which Shardiya Navratri begins.
Why is Mahalaya Amavasya Celebrated?
Performing Shraddha for ancestors on Mahalaya Amavasya not only brings peace to their souls but also ensures prosperity and the resolution of family problems for the individual performing the rituals. It is believed that donating to the needy on this day brings the blessings of both the ancestors and Goddess Durga.
What to Do on Mahalaya Amavasya
On Mahalaya, feeding Brahmins and offering them charity brings peace to the ancestors, who then return happily to their realm. On this day, the ancestors are offered Tarpan, which is performed with a mixture of milk, sesame seeds, Kusha grass, and flowers.
Mahalaya Amavasya is not only a day to honor ancestors but also marks the auspicious beginning of Goddess Durga’s arrival on Earth, leading up to the grand celebrations of Durga Puja and Navratri.