Amavasya Dates 2026

Amavasya (অমাবস্যা) is the Sanskrit term for the new moon day — the 30th tithi (or 15th of Krishna Paksha) in the Hindu lunar calendar when the moon is completely dark (not visible). The word comes from "ama" (together) and "vasya" (to dwell) — the day when the sun and moon dwell in the same zodiac sign.

In Hindu and Bengali tradition, Amavasya is considered one of the most sacred days for performing ancestral rites (Pitru Karma). It is believed that on this day, the souls of deceased ancestors visit the earth plane, and offerings made in their name — water (tarpan), food (pinda), and charity (daan) — reach them directly. Failing to perform Pitru Karma on Amavasya is considered inauspicious in the Hindu tradition.

The most significant Amavasya in the Bengali Hindu calendar is Kali Puja (8 November 2026), which coincides with Diwali. On this night, Goddess Kali — the fierce form of Shakti — is worshipped across West Bengal with great devotion, fireworks, and all-night prayers. Another deeply emotional Amavasya is Mahalaya (10 September 2026) — the Pitru Paksha Amavasya that marks the end of the ancestral fortnight and the beginning of Devi Paksha, when Goddess Durga is invoked. Mahalaya morning in Bengal begins with the legendary radio programme "Mahishasura Mardini" — a timeless tradition.

In 2026, the Shravana Amavasya (12 August 2026) is extraordinary because a Solar Eclipse (Surya Grahan) occurs on this day. A solar eclipse always happens on Amavasya (when the moon passes between the sun and earth). Religious activities performed during the Grahan period are considered exceptionally meritorious in the Hindu tradition.

Pitru Paksha is a 16-day lunar period in the Krishna Paksha of the Bhadra month (August–September) dedicated entirely to ancestral rites. In 2026, Pitru Paksha runs from 26 August to 10 September 2026, ending on Mahalaya Amavasya.

During these 16 days, Hindus perform Shraadh on the specific tithi on which their ancestor died. If the tithi is unknown, Amavasya (the last day — Mahalaya) is used. Brahmins are fed, and charitable donations are made in the name of deceased family members.