Amavasya Dates 2026 : Complete List of New Moon Dates, Tithis, Timings, and Rituals

Amavasya, or the New Moon day, holds a profound and unique significance in the Hindu lunisolar calendar. Marking the end of the dark lunar fortnight (Krishna Paksha) and the start of a new lunar cycle, this day is observed throughout the year with specific rituals, fasts, and cultural practices.

For the year 2026, there will be twelve major Amavasya dates, each correlating to a specific Hindu calendar month and carrying its own distinct spiritual importance. This article provides a comprehensive list of all Amavasya dates in 2026, along with an explanation of their individual significance.

Complete List of Amavasya Dates in 2026

The following table details the date, corresponding Hindu month, day of the week, and the specific spiritual name of the Amavasya for the year 2026.

Note: The exact timing of the Tithi (lunar phase) can affect the observance day. The dates provided are the primary observance days based on standard Panchang calculations for India. It is always recommended to cross-reference with a local Hindu calendar.

Spiritual and Ritualistic Significance of Amavasya

Amavasya is the day when the Moon is closest to the Sun and is completely invisible. In Vedic astrology and Hindu tradition, this specific alignment of cosmic energies is believed to have a profound effect on the Earth and the human mind.

1. Dedicated to Ancestors (Pitri Devata)

The most consistent ritual across all Amavasya days is the reverence for departed ancestors, known as Pitri Devata.

• Shraddha and Tarpan: Devotees perform Shraddha (rituals) and Tarpan (offering water with black sesame seeds) to satisfy the souls of their ancestors. It is believed that by doing so, one receives the blessings of their forefathers, helping to mitigate Pitru Dosha (ancestral affliction) in their horoscope.

2. The Power of Silence and Sadhana

The "no moon" darkness symbolizes a quiet power and is considered highly conducive for spiritual practices (Sadhana) and meditation. The energy on Amavasya is believed to assist in introspection and transcendence, making it an ideal day for yogis and spiritual seekers.

3. Special Amavasya Observances in 2026

While every Amavasya is important, a few days in 2026 hold extraordinary significance:

• Mahalaya Amavasya (September 11): This is the most important Amavasya of the year. It marks the culmination of the Pitru Paksha fortnight, during which all final ancestral rites are performed. It also signifies the day when the Goddess Durga is invoked for the upcoming Navaratri festival.
• Kartika Amavasya (November 9) - Diwali: This is the darkest night of the year and is celebrated as Deepavali (Diwali), the Festival of Lights. It is the night when Hindus perform Lakshmi Puja to invite the Goddess of wealth and prosperity into their homes, dispelling the darkness of ignorance and poverty.
• Hariyali Amavasya (August 12): Falling in the monsoon month of Shravana, this day celebrates nature and the arrival of the rains. It is an occasion to worship trees and the Earth, symbolizing prosperity and fertility.
• Somvati and Shani Amavasya: When the Amavasya Tithi falls on a Monday (Somwar), it is known as Somvati Amavasya, which is highly auspicious, especially for married women. When it falls on a Saturday (Shanivar), it is called Shani Amavasya, a powerful day to worship Lord Shani (Saturn) and mitigate the malefic effects of Shani Dosha.

Rituals to Observe on Amavasya

The common practices recommended on an Amavasya day include:

1. Holy Dip (Snan): Taking a sacred bath in a holy river (like the Ganga, Yamuna, or Kaveri) or a nearby water body is considered highly purifying.
2. Fasting: Many devotees observe a partial or complete fast to purify the body and mind.
3. Worship: Offering prayers to Lord Shiva and Goddess Kali, as the night is associated with their powerful forms.
4. Charity (Daan): Giving food, clothes, or money to the poor and needy is highly meritorious on this day.

Pitri Karma: Performing Tarpan rituals for the peace and satisfaction of ancestral souls.