In the Sanatan tradition, the Amavasya of the month of Margashirsha has a sacred significance. The month was described by Lord Krishna Himself as His own form.
On its Amavasya, the worship of Shri Hari and the veneration of one’s ancestors are believed to bring rewards. According to Hindu belief, snan (ritual bath) at a holy pilgrimage site on this day, followed by daan (charity), worship, pind daan and tarpan, brings blessings from both the deities and the ancestors. Margashirsha Amavasya will be observed on 20 November, 2025.
It is believed that on this date, ancestors expect their descendants to perform rituals such as tarpan, shraadh, pind daan and offering of food, properly and with devotion, for their satisfaction and liberation. Let us understand how one should perform the rituals that please both the deities and the ancestors on the Amavasya of Margashirsha.
How to Perform Worship on Margashirsha Amavasya
According to Hindu belief, on Margashirsha or Agahan Amavasya, one should do snan in a sacred river such as Ganga. This should be followed by meditation and daan. After purifying body and mind on this sacred day, the first offering should be made to Surya Narayan. After this, one should worship Shri Hari or His complete incarnation, Lord Krishna, following proper ritual methods. To receive the blessings of Shri Hari on Margashirsha Amavasya, it is considered especially auspicious to recite the Vishnu Chalisa or the Vishnu Sahasranama.
How to Worship the Ancestors
Before performing tarpan, purify your body and mind. It’s important to sprinkle Ganga jal around the place where the tarpan is to be offered. Before starting the prayers, light an earthen lamp (diya). Place the photograph of the departed person whose tarpan is being performed in the south direction and invoke the ancestors through mantras. After this, place kusha grass, black sesame seeds and white flowers in a vessel filled with water. Offer water to the ancestors while chanting the mantra Om Pitribhya Swadha. After offering the water, remember the ancestors and seek forgiveness for any mistakes, then pray for the wellbeing and prosperity of your family and lineage.
A Remedy for Agahan Amavasya
To receive the blessings of the ancestors on Agahan Amavasya, offer food, clothing, money and other items in their name. Set aside a portion of food for cows, dogs and crows. According to Hindu belief, performing this remedy on Amavasya removes difficulties from life and brings the grace of the ancestors.