Mauni Amavasya is a distinct Hindu ritual observed on the no moon day (Amavasya). It is observed on the “Magha” month as per the Hindu calendar and falls during the months of January or February according to the Gregorian calendar. The word “mauni” means silence, hence, on the Mauni Amavasya day most of the Hindu devotees practice complete silence. The day of Mauni Amavasya is dedicated to spiritual Sadhana. In 2022, Mauni Amavasya falls on 1st February, Tuesday.
Significance Of Mauni Amavasya-
Observing “mauna” or silence is a pivotal part of Hindu religion since it has spiritual significance. The word “mauni” is derived from another Hindi word “muni” which means a sanyasi or a saint. A saint is often described as a person who practices silence as a part of his daily routine. Therefore, the word “mauna” appropriately signifies the attainment of oneness with self. Adi Shankaracharya, the very popular Hindu guru, also stated once that practicing “mauna” is one of the three principal attributes of a saint. Even the modern Hindu guru Ramana Maharshi propagated the benefits of practicing silence for spiritual attainment. He believed that silence is the most powerful tool in the world since it unites an individual with himself/herself. Hence, it’s believed that practicing Mauni Amavasya helps in calming one’s restless mind and soul.
The Hindu devotees also take a holy dip in the water on the Mauni Amavasya day as a significant part of the ritual. According to the Hindu scriptures, people believe that the water in the sacred Ganga River turns into nectar on the Mauni Amavasya day. Thus, Devotees from around the world visit the river to take a holy bath. The bathing ritual can also be conducted at any time in the “Magha” month i.e. from Paush Purnima to Magha Purnima.
Mauni Amavasya Tithi-
- Sunrise: 1st February, 2022 07:10 AM.
- Sunset: 1st February, 2022 06:09 PM.
- Amavasya Tithi Begins: 31st January, 2022 02:18 PM.
- Amavasya Tithi Ends: 1st February, 2022 11:15 AM
Puja Rituals
- The devotees observing Mauni Amavasya get up early in the morning on the puja day and take a holy bath in the Ganges during the sunrise. Devotees who can’t visit a Pilgrimage place can add some Ganga jal to the bathing water and take their holy bath. The person taking the holy bath should maintain complete silence while taking the bath.
- After the bathing ritual is done, the devotees sit down for meditation to concentrate better and gain inner peace. Some devotees maintain complete silence for the entire day, called “mauna vrat”. Those who cannot stay quiet for the entire day must maintain silence at least till the puja rituals get over.
- Mauni Amavasya is also considered as an auspicious day for getting rid of Pitru Dosh. People offer “tarpan” to their ancestors and seek their blessings and forgiveness. It’s considered good to offer food to dogs, cows, crows and kushth rogis.
- The devotees also worship Lord Brahma and recite “Gayatri mantra” on this day after breaking the silence, after the puja in the evening. An individual should avoid doing anything wrong on this day. Doing charity work is also an important ritual of this day. People donate money, clothes and essentials to the poor and needy.
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Also read: Pradosh Vrat: Significance, Benefits and Puja Vidhi
