For devout Hindus and followers of Vedic traditions, the new moon day, known as Amavasya, holds immense spiritual significance. Marking a time for introspection, ancestral rites, and specific religious observances, knowing the Amavasya dates in advance is crucial for planning rituals and fasts. The year 2026 presents a complete calendar of these potent lunar phases, including the highly significant Mauni Amavasya, Somvati Amavasya, and Shanishchari Amavasya.
The Complete Amavasya Calendar for 2026
The following list provides all the Amavasya dates for the year 2026, according to the Hindu lunar calendar. Each Amavasya carries its own unique importance and prescribed set of rituals.
- January 17, 2026: Paush Amavasya
- February 16, 2026: Magha Amavasya (This is the highly significant Mauni Amavasya)
- March 17, 2026: Phalguna Amavasya
- April 16, 2026: Chaitra Amavasya
- May 15, 2026: Vaishakha Amavasya
- June 14, 2026: Jyeshtha Amavasya
- July 13, 2026: Ashadha Amavasya
- August 12, 2026: Shravana Amavasya (This day is observed as Hariyali Amavasya)
- September 10, 2026: Bhadrapada Amavasya (This is Somvati Amavasya, falling on a Monday)
- October 10, 2026: Ashwin Amavasya
- November 8, 2026: Kartik Amavasya
- December 8, 2026: Margashirsha Amavasya
It is important to note that these dates may vary slightly based on regional calendar calculations and the sighting of the moon. Devotees are advised to confirm with local Panchang sources for precise timings, or Tithi.
Significance of Key Amavasya Observances in 2026
While every Amavasya is considered auspicious for performing Shradh or Tarpan for ancestors, certain Amavasya days hold special prominence due to planetary alignments or weekday occurrences.
Mauni Amavasya 2026: The Day of Sacred Silence
Magha Amavasya, falling on February 16, 2026, is celebrated as Mauni Amavasya. This is one of the most spiritually charged days of the year, particularly for pilgrims at the Sangam (confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati) in Prayagraj during the Magh Mela. The term 'Mauni' derives from 'Maun', meaning silence. Observing a vow of silence on this day is believed to help control the senses, calm the mind, and facilitate deeper meditation. Holy dips in sacred rivers, especially at dawn, are considered highly meritorious and are believed to cleanse past karma.
Somvati Amavasya 2026: The Monday New Moon
In 2026, Somvati Amavasya occurs on September 10, as Bhadrapada Amavasya coincides with a Monday ('Somvar'). This conjunction is considered exceptionally auspicious. Married women often observe fasts on this day for the longevity and well-being of their husbands. Rituals include bathing in sacred rivers, worshipping the Peepal tree (considered an abode of the Trinity), and offering water and prayers. The story of Savitri and Satyavan is closely associated with this vrat, symbolizing devotion and the power to alter destiny.
Shanishchari Amavasya: When Amavasya Meets Saturn
Shanishchari Amavasya refers to any Amavasya that falls on a Saturday ('Shanivar'). In 2026, devotees should check the calendar for this specific alignment, as it combines the energies of the moonless night with the planet Saturn (Shani). This day is considered powerful for performing remedies to pacify Shani's influence. Activities like donating black sesame seeds, oil, or iron, and offering prayers to Lord Shani are commonly performed to seek relief from hardships and obstacles in life.
Rituals and Observances Common to All Amavasya Days
The common thread across all Amavasya observances is the remembrance and appeasement of ancestors, known as Pitru Tarpan or Shradh. It is a deeply held belief that performing these rites with devotion provides peace to departed souls and brings their blessings to the living family.
Key rituals include taking an early morning bath in a river or at home, offering black sesame seeds (til) and water to ancestors, performing Pinda Daan, and donating food and essentials to Brahmins or the needy. Many people also observe a fast from sunrise to moonrise, breaking it after sighting the moon and performing evening prayers. Lighting lamps, especially with mustard oil, is another common practice to ward off negative energies associated with the dark night.
By marking these Amavasya 2026 dates in your calendar, you can plan your spiritual practices in advance. Whether it is observing the profound silence of Mauni Amavasya, participating in the spousal devotion of Somvati Amavasya, or performing ancestral rites, each new moon offers a unique opportunity for spiritual growth and familial piety.
