Amavasya — observances and vrat guides

Amavasya is the new-moon tithi and has a distinct place in household worship, remembrance and charity. Somavati and Shanivati observances add weekday associations, while seasonal new moons carry their own regional names. A vow followed by one family may not be required of every devotee. The date also depends on which observance rule is being applied, not simply on a moon-phase label. This collection separates named annual observances from recurring Amavasya entries and keeps their tradition, deity or ancestral focus visible. Read the individual guide before adopting another community's fasting or food practices.

The catalog currently includes 25 distinct entries in this collection. Examples are Amavasya; Shani Jayanti (Jyeshtha Amavasya); Mahalaya Amavasya; Halharini Amavasya (Ashadha Amavasya); Mauni Amavasya (Magha Amavasya). Their recorded devotional focus includes Ancestors (Pitru); Shani Dev (Lord Saturn, son of Surya and Chhaya). Follow the individual links below for the full description, calendar dates, mantra and allowed or avoided foods; each link leads to a dedicated observance page rather than a search result.

Calendar dates are references, not a substitute for the observance rules of your chosen city and community. Lunar days can cross civil-date boundaries, and regional practice can change which day is kept. Meal suggestions are optional ideas for an allowed meal, not instructions to eat during a complete fast. Children, pregnant people and anyone with a medical condition should seek appropriate advice before fasting. Compare the linked guides with your family or temple's practice and choose a discipline suited to your health.

All 25 observances in this collection