Shraddh Amawasya is a significant day for Hindus to perform Shraddh rituals for all the known and unknown deceased family members whose exact tithi (death anniversary) could not be determined. It is believed that on this day, one can honour all ancestors collectively.

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Welcome to the world of engrossing reads at www.onindianpath.com. In this blog, let’s explore the meaning, date, and significance of Mahalaya Amawasya 2025.
What is Sava Pitru Amawasya/Shraddh Amawasya/Mahalya Amawasya 2025?
As name suggests, this amawasya is the last day of Pitru Paksha. It is end of Bhadrapada mas and beginning of Ashwin mas of Hindu Panchang. As per religious texts it is a significant day for the ancestors to get freedom from cycle of death and birth.
Significance of Pitru/ Shraddh Amawasya 2025
Besides, the last day of Pitru Paksha is known by many names. It is called Sarva Pitru Amawasya, Pitru Moksha Amawasya, Mahalaya Amawasya, and Shraddh Amawasya. Additionally, it is referred to as Ashwin Amavasya. On this day, Shradh rituals is performed for all ancestors, both known and unknown. Especially for those whose death dates are forgotten, rituals like Tarpan and Pind Daan hold special significance.
Moreover, Sarva Pitru Amawasya is regarded as the day dedicated to ancestors. Performing Shradh for all ancestors on this Amawasya of Pitru Paksha holds deep significance. While we offer Shradh for the ancestors we know, the unknown ones also expect offerings from us during this time. It is crucial to satisfy them, as their disappointment can lead to Pitra Dosh, a curse that brings various issues to the family.
Consequently, these may include illness, unrest, and stagnation in progress. Therefore, on Sarva Pitru Amawasya, Shradh and Tarpan for both known and unknown ancestors must be performed to avoid such troubles.
Date and tithi of Pitru/ Mahalaya/ Shraddh Amawasya 2025
As per Hindu Panchang, it falls on the Amawasya of Ashwin mas. In 2025, it will fall on 21st September 2025. However the Amawasya tithi will start at 12:16 AM on September 21, 2025 and will end up at 1:23 AM on September 22, 2025.
What is Mahalaya Amawasya ?
Although, it is also performed with diferent names at different geographical locations. In Bengali culture, as the date draws near, Bengali people eagerly prepare for the observance of Mahalaya Amawasya. This year, Mahalaya Amawasya falls on the 21st of September. Homes are meticulously cleaned and adorned with traditional decorations. Families come together to offer prayers and perform Shradh ceremonies, fostering a deep sense of spiritual connection and familial unity.
Also, it marks the beginning of Durga Puja to be celebrated in Navratri 2025.
Peddala Amawasya 2025
In the southern part of the country, this day is also known as Peddala Amavasya, dedicated to remembering and paying homage to ancestors. Furthermore, it holds great significance for Hindus seeking the blessings of their departed loved ones who have journeyed to the heavenly abode.
In southern part of country, Hindus pray to Swadha Devi. They seek her blessings and the blessings of their deceased ancestors.
Who is Swadha Devi?
Swadha Devi enhances the fulfillment of ‘Pitru Trupti’ and sanctifies the ‘Shraddha’ rituals.
Why did Lord Brahma create her?
When the food offerings made by humans to their ancestors failed to reach them properly, the Pitrus complained to Lord Brahma, who then created Swadha Devi, resembling a radiant white Champaka flower. During creation, Lord Brahma established Pitaruloka as the realm for the Pitru Devatas. He also prescribed that all humans must worship their ancestors.
How does she ensure the fulfillment of these rituals on Shraddh Amawasya ?
Apparently, she embodies the qualities of knowledge, purity and devotion. Hence, she guarantees that the offerings, suffixed with the sacred mantra “Swadhaana,” reach the ancestors and satisfy them. Just as Swaha Devi is for Agni, Lord Brahma declared Swadha Devi the for the Pitras. Although, without invoking her, offerings during Tarpanas and Shraddhas are deemed incomplete, and through her divine presence, the Pitrus are blessed with satisfaction and grace. Swadha Devi is also praised for bestowing harmony upon households, ensuring loyal spouses and virtuous children for those who chant her sacred name during Trikaala Sandhya.
Muhurat of Shraddh Amawasya 2025
As per Hindu text, Pitru Paksha Shraddha is Parvan Shraddha. For performing these Shraddhas, Kutup, Rauhin etc. Muhurta are considered auspicious. Shraddha related rituals should be completed by the end of afternoon. Tarpan is performed at the end of Shraddha.
Kutup and Rauhin Muhurta for Amawasya 2025 are as follow :
- Kutup Muhurta – 11:46 AM to 12:35 PM(Duration – 00 Hours 49 Minutes)
- Rauhin Muhurta – 12:35 PM to 01:24 PM(Duration – 00 Hours 49 Minutes)
- Aparahna Muhurta – 01:24 PM to 03:50 PM(Duration – 02 Hours 26 Minutes)
Unable to perform Shraddh on all the specific dates? Performing it on Shraddh Amawasya alone is enough to please the souls of all your ancestors.
Conclusion
At the end, we know that Pitri Amawasya 2025 holds profound significance as a day of remembrance and reverence for ancestors. Through rituals like Shraddh and Tarpan, families honor their departed loved ones, seeking blessings and spiritual guidance. It is a time to express gratitude and ensure the peace of the ancestors’ souls, fostering harmony and protection for future generations. Performing these rites on this day is believed to bring relief from Pitru Dosh and help maintain the spiritual balance within the family.