Somvati Amavasya 2024: Date, timings, and rituals for ancestor worship

Somvati Amavasya 2024: Date, timings, and rituals for ancestor worship

Mumbai: Amavasya, the no-moon day, is deeply revered in Hindu tradition. Occurring twelve times annually, it holds immense spiritual significance. Among these, Somvati Amavasya, which falls on a Monday, is considered particularly auspicious. This day is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the embodiment of transformation and destruction, and is celebrated with deep devotion and rituals. It is also a significant occasion for performing ancestral worship, a practice believed to bring peace and blessings from departed souls.

Somvati Amavasya carries dual importance—devotees seek Lord Shiva’s blessings to fulfil desires and observe ancestral rites to honour their forebears. The day’s rituals, performed with faith and sincerity, are believed to dispel negativity, grant prosperity, and foster spiritual growth. In 2024, the last Somvati Amavasya falls on December 30, providing a powerful opportunity for devotees to engage in divine and ancestral worship.

Somvati Amavasya 2024 Date and Timing

On this day, ancestral worship (pitru puja) is also performed. Devotees believe that offering prayers to Lord Shiva and his family on Somvati Amavasya fulfils all wishes. The last Somvati Amavasya of 2024 falls on December 30.

Start of Amavasya Tithi: December 30 at 4:01 AM
End of Amavasya Tithi: December 31 at 3:56 AM

Nighttime Worship of Lord Shiva and Moon God

The night of Somvati Amavasya is considered highly auspicious for worship. Devotees also perform Rudrabhishek, a special ritual to honour Lord Shiva. The most favourable time for nighttime worship is:

Shubh Muhurat: December 30 from 11:56 PM to 12:51 AM

Rituals and Worship Guidelines

Somvati Amavasya involves a series of rituals that hold both spiritual and cultural importance:

Morning Rituals

Take a dip in the Ganga or other sacred rivers.
Light a diya made of desi ghee for the ancestors.
Offer water and prayers to the departed souls.
Offer prayers to the Tulsi plant and chant mantras.

Evening and Nighttime Rituals

Worship Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, and the Moon God during the night.
Perform Rudrabhishek (Abhishek with water, milk, honey, and ghee).
Donate food, clothes, and money to the needy.

Importance of Somvati Amavasya

The Garuda Purana highlights the significance of this day for ancestral worship and offerings:

Performing rituals like Tarpan and Pind Daan on this day bring peace to departed souls.
Worshipping ancestors helps in mitigating ancestral afflictions.
Ancestors bless their descendants with prosperity and happiness.
Donations made on this day are considered highly virtuous.

Ritual
Description

Holy Bath

Take a dip in sacred rivers like the Ganga.

Lighting a Diya

Light a lamp with ghee to honour ancestors.

Pitru Tarpan

Offer prayers and water to departed souls.

Rudrabhishek

Perform Abhishek of Lord Shiva with sacred items like milk and honey.

Charity

Donate food, clothes, and essentials to the needy.

Nighttime Worship

Offer prayers to Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, and the Moon God.

Embracing the rituals and traditions of Somvati Amavasya not only strengthens one’s spiritual connection but also brings immense blessings to families and individuals alike. Celebrate this sacred day with devotion, rituals, and generosity.

(Disclaimer: The puja timings and rituals mentioned are based on traditional practices and widely accepted beliefs. News9 Live does not claim responsibility for the accuracy of auspicious timings; readers are encouraged to consult local sources for specific guidance.)

 Somvati Amavasya 2024, on December 30, is a spiritually significant day for ancestral worship and seeking Lord Shiva’s blessings. Learn about the rituals, timings, and cultural importance of this sacred occasion.  Spirituality Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips