News
Mauni Amavasya 2024: Significance and Rituals of this Auspicious Day
Mauni Amavasya, also known as the Magha Amavasya, is considered a highly auspicious day in the Hindu lunar calendar. This year, Mauni Amavasya falls on 9th February. It holds great importance for performing religious rituals, yajnas, and rigorous tapasya (austerity).
nn
According to Hindu beliefs, Mauni Amavasya is associated with the birth of sage Manu, who is considered the progenitor of mankind. The term ‘Mauni’ is derived from ‘Manu’, and this day is dedicated to observing silence and indulging in spiritual practices.
nn
The auspicious muhurat for Mauni Amavasya 2024 starts from 9th February at 8:02 AM and ends on 10th February at 4:28 AM. Devotees generally observe this day based on the sunrise on 9th February.
nn
What makes Mauni Amavasya even more special this year is the presence of several propitious planetary alignments. It is characterized by the convergence of Sarvarth Siddhi Yoga, Vinayak Amrit Yoga, Hansa Yoga, and Malavya Yoga, all of which are considered highly favorable.
nn
On the day of Mauni Amavasya, devotees are advised to take a purifying bath during the early hours of the morning. After the bath, offering tarpan (water oblations) to the Sun with sesame seeds is considered auspicious. Wearing clean clothes, devotees then proceed with chanting mantras and performing puja rituals. Generous donations are also encouraged on this day.
nn
To pacify the malefic effects of the planets, a recommended remedy for Mauni Amavasya is to visit a Shiva temple and offer Rudraksha mala to Lord Shiva. Chanting the sacred mantra of Lord Shiva 108 times while lighting incense is also advised. The Rudraksha mala can be worn around the neck or kept close to oneself.
nn
Devotees can observe fasting on Mauni Amavasya by consuming only water and fruits. Apart from the religious practices, it is also believed to be an excellent time for performing charitable acts. Some suggested acts of charity include offering donations to cows for liberation, donating land for prosperity, giving away black sesame seeds to ward off negative influences, donating gold for healing the ailments, and offering ghee along with a worthy recipient for family welfare.
nn
Therefore, Mauni Amavasya 2024 presents a unique opportunity for devotees to engage in spiritual endeavors, seek blessings, and alleviate the malefic planetary influences through sincere prayers, rituals, and acts of kindness.