Chennai: Among the significant festivals in Hinduism, Aadi Amavasai holds a special place as an important day for worshipping ancestors. This auspicious day is ideal for performing 'tharpanam' rituals and observing fasts, allowing devotees to receive both divine blessings and the grace of their forefathers. Here, we delve into the details of Aadi Amavasai, including the right time to perform ancestral rites, how to observe them, and the benefits derived.
Significance of Aadi Amavasai: Just as the Tamil month of Aadi holds immense importance for Amman worship and newlywed couples, it is equally significant for honoring ancestors. During Aadi, the sun enters the Dakshinayana Punya Kalam, which is considered the night for the Devas. It is believed that during this month, ancestors visit the earthly realm to see their descendants. Therefore, the Amavasai (new moon day) that falls in Aadi is considered highly auspicious for receiving the blessings of Pitrus (ancestors).
Aadi Amavasai 2025 Date and Auspicious Time for Rites: This year, Aadi Amavasai falls on Thursday, July 24, 2025.
Amavasai Tithi begins: July 24, 2025, at 3:06 AM.
Amavasai Tithi ends: July 25, 2025, at 1:48 AM.
Ideal Time for Performing Thithi/Tharpanam for Ancestors: On Thursday, July 24, 2025, the most auspicious time to perform Thithi and Tharpanam rituals is from 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM after sunrise.
Note: It is generally advisable to avoid performing Thithi or Tharpanam during Rahu Kalam and Yamagandam.
Rituals to Observe on Aadi Amavasai:
House Cleaning: It is essential to thoroughly clean and purify the house on the day before Amavasai, symbolizing a welcoming gesture to ancestors.
Sacred Bath: On Amavasai day, wake up early and take a holy dip in the sea, river, or any sacred water body. If unable to visit a water body, take a head bath at home and wear clean clothes.
Performing Tharpanam:
Perform the Thithi and Tharpanam rituals for departed ancestors with utmost devotion, as per family traditions.
For those unable to visit water bodies, offerings of sesame seeds and water can be made at home while meditating on ancestors.
Performing Annadanam (food donation) can also help in receiving the blessings of Pitrus.
Pitru Puja and Offerings:
Prepare favorite dishes of your ancestors and offer them as a 'padayal' (offering of food).
Place rice, vegetables, sweets, etc., in a clean spot as an offering.
It is highly important to offer a portion of the prepared food to crows, as crows are believed to represent the Pitrus.
Temple Visit: Visiting nearby Shiva or Perumal temples, especially to pray for the removal of Pitru Dosha, is beneficial. Performing Thithi at sacred places like Rameswaram, Srirangam, or Tiruchendur is considered highly auspicious.
Charity: Donating food, clothes, or other necessities to the needy and less fortunate on this day brings immense blessings from ancestors.
Things to Avoid on Aadi Amavasai:
Avoid drawing 'kolam' (rangoli) at the doorstep on Amavasai day.
Refrain from consuming non-vegetarian food; only vegetarian meals should be taken.
Avoid shocking incidents, unnecessary arguments, and quarrels.
Benefits of Aadi Amavasai Worship: By sincerely worshipping ancestors on Aadi Amavasai, their souls attain peace. Consequently, Pitru Doshas (ancestral curses/afflictions) in the family are resolved, leading to sustained happiness and prosperity across generations. It is believed that ancestral blessings also facilitate progeny for couples, remove obstacles to marriage, and bring success in business and professions.
Disclaimer: The information provided is based on general traditional beliefs. For personalized astrological remedies, it is advisable to consult an expert astrologer.
