Here are all the Amavasya (new moon) observances of 2026 in date order — 16 entries, including the special Mauni, Somvati and Sarva Pitru Amavasyas. Dates are calculated for New Delhi.
Amavasya is the new-moon day, the last tithi of Krishna paksha. It is traditionally dedicated to the ancestors (pitru): families offer tarpan and shraddha, give food and charity, and many avoid starting new ventures. In the amanta calendar used in Gujarat, Maharashtra and the South, each Amavasya ends the Hindu month.
Special Amavasyas
Somvati Amavasya — an Amavasya falling on a Monday, considered very auspicious for fasting and a holy dip.
Shani Amavasya — an Amavasya on a Saturday, for Shani dev worship.
Mauni Amavasya (Magha) — observed with silence and a dip in the Ganga; a major bathing day at the Kumbh.
Sarva Pitru Amavasya (Ashwina) — the last day of Pitru Paksha, for ancestors whose death date isn't known.
Kartika Amavasya — the night of Diwali Lakshmi Puja.
Frequently asked questions
Why do some dates have two Amavasya names?+
A single new moon can be both a monthly Amavasya and a special one — for example a Monday Amavasya is also Somvati Amavasya. Both names are listed.
Is Amavasya good for buying or starting new things?+
Many traditions avoid new beginnings on Amavasya — the big exception is Diwali, celebrated on Kartika Amavasya.
