Significance
Amavasya, the new-moon (no-moon) day, is dedicated chiefly to the ancestors (pitrs). Rites such as tarpan and shradh performed on Amavasya are believed to bring peace to departed souls and their blessings to the family.
Certain Amavasyas — Mauni, Somvati, Mahalaya, Diwali (Lakshmi Puja) — carry special power.
Rituals
Devotees perform pitru tarpan and shradh, take holy dips, give charity in the name of ancestors, and worship Shiva and Kali. It is a day for introspection; auspicious new ventures are generally avoided.
Amavasya through the year
The list above shows every Amavasya for the selected year with its month name. Choose a year to see the new-moon dates for your location.