When Is Amavasya In February In 2024? Mauni Amavasya Timings, Rituals And Significance

Amavasya In February In 2024 Date & Timings: Amavasya is a significant lunar phase in Hindu astrology, occurring when the moon is completely dark, symbolising a new lunar cycle. It typically falls once a month, marking the end of the previous month's lunar cycle and the beginning of a new one. Considered an auspicious time for spiritual practices and reflection, Amavasya holds cultural importance in various Hindu traditions.

Devotees often perform rituals and offer prayers during this period, seeking blessings and spiritual purification. In February Mauni Amavasya occurs when the Moon is not easily seen in the sky on the New Moon day.

When Is Mauni Amavasya in 2024?

As per the North Indian calendar, Mauni Amavasya falls in the middle of the Hindu month of Magha. That's why it is also called Maghi Amavasya. In 2024, Mauni Amavasya will be observed on Friday, February 9th. During the Kumbh Mela, Mauni Amavasya stands out as the most significant day for taking a holy dip in the sacred waters of Prayagraj.

This day is celebrated as Amrit Yoga and is also celebrated as Kumbh Parva. Devotees gather to worship Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu on Mauni Amavasya.

What is Mauni Amavasya?

Amavasya | Photo: Pixabay

Mauni Amavasya is a significant Hindu religious observance that falls on the new moon day (Amavasya) in the month of Magha in the Hindu lunar calendar. The term "Mauni" is derived from the Sanskrit word "Mauna," which means silence. This day is also known as Mauna Amavasya or Mauni Amavas.

On Mauni Amavasya, devotees believe in practicing silence or observing mauna (silence) for the entire day. The idea is to engage in self-reflection, meditation, and spiritual activities. It is considered a time for individuals to turn inward, contemplate their thoughts, and focus on their spiritual growth.

One of the most significant rituals on Mauni Amavasya is taking a holy dip in sacred rivers, particularly at the confluence of rivers or at pilgrimage sites. The most renowned place for this ritual is Prayagraj (formerly Allahabad) at the Triveni Sangam, the meeting point of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers.

Devotees also engage in charitable activities, perform rituals, and visit temples to seek blessings on Mauni Amavasya. The day is considered auspicious for spiritual practices and is observed with reverence by those following Hindu traditions.

Significance of Mauni Amavasya

Mauni Amavasya holds significance in Hinduism, particularly in the context of spiritual practices and rituals. This auspicious day falls on the new moon day (Amavasya) of the Magha month in the Hindu lunar calendar, usually in January or February. The word "Mauni" is derived from the Sanskrit word "Mauna," which means silence. Therefore, Mauni Amavasya is often associated with observing silence or Mauna Vrat.

The main significance of Mauni Amavasya includes:

Spiritual Observance:

Devotees observe Mauna Vrat, a day-long silence, to enhance their spiritual discipline. Silence is believed to purify the mind, helping individuals turn inward and focus on self-realisation.

Holy Dips:

Taking a holy dip in sacred rivers, especially the Ganges, Yamuna, and Sarasvati, on Mauni Amavasya is considered highly auspicious. This act is believed to cleanse one's sins and bring spiritual purification.

Pitru Dosh Puja

Mauni Amavasya is a significant day in the Hindu religion. It's a special day dedicated to honoring our ancestors and forefathers. People believe that performing rituals for Pitru Dosha on this day is highly beneficial. The Pitru Dosha puja, done on Mauni Amavasya, is considered meritorious and brings blessings.

Charitable Acts:

Devotees engage in acts of charity, such as donating food, clothing, or other necessities, as it is believed that benevolent deeds on this day bring blessings and positive karma.

Observing Rituals:

Many people perform rituals and offer prayers to deities on Mauni Amavasya, seeking blessings for health, prosperity, and overall well-being.

Significance in Scriptures:

Mauni Amavasya is mentioned in various Hindu scriptures, emphasising the importance of observing silence and engaging in spiritual practices on this day.

It's important to note that the specific customs and traditions associated with Mauni Amavasya may vary across different regions and communities within the Hindu faith. Overall, the day is seen as an opportunity for self-reflection, spiritual growth, and acts of kindness and compassion.

Mauni Amavasya Rituals

• Devotees wake up early on Mauni Amavasya to bathe in the Ganges at sunrise.
• If unable to visit a pilgrimage site, adding a bit of Ganga water to bathing is recommended.
• It is believed that silence should be maintained while taking this holy bath.
• Devotees also worship Lord Brahma and chant the Gayatri mantra on this day.
• After bathing, devotees engage in meditation for concentration and inner peace.
• Wrong actions are to be avoided on Mauni Amavasya.
• Some devotees observe complete silence, known as 'Mauna Vrat,' striving for oneness with self.
• If unable to observe 'Mauna Vrat' all day, silence should be maintained until finishing puja rituals.
• Thousands of Hindu devotees, including 'kalpavasis,' take a holy dip at Prayag's Sangam on this day.
• The remainder of the day is spent in meditation and spiritual reflection.

Date And Timings of upcoming Amavasya in 2024:

(Note: Dates/timings may be subject to change; details mentioned here are as per the information available.)

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