Chaitra Amavasya is the first and the most important no moon day of the year according to the Hindu calendar. It falls in the month of Chaitra (March-April), which marks the beginning of a new year for many regions in India. This year, Chaitra Amavasya will be observed on March 21, 2023.

What is Chaitra Amavasya?

Amavasya is a Sanskrit word that means "darkness" or "no moon". It refers to the lunar phase when the moon is not visible in the sky. There are 12 Amavasyas in a year, each corresponding to a different month. Chaitra Amavasya is the first one and it signifies the end of one cycle and the start of another.

Chaitra Amavasya is also known as Phalgun Amavasya or Darsha Amavasya. It is considered a very auspicious and sacred day for performing various spiritual activities such as fasting, charity, meditation, worship, etc. It is also a day to honor one's ancestors and seek their blessings for a prosperous future.

The significance of Chaitra Amavasya

Chaitra Amavasya has a special significance in Hinduism as it marks the onset of spring season and new beginnings. It is believed that on this day, Lord Brahma created the universe and Lord Vishnu incarnated as Matsya (fish) to save Manu from the great flood.

Chaitra Amavasya is also associated with Goddess Lakshmi, who bestows wealth and abundance on her devotees. It is said that worshipping her on this day can attract prosperity and happiness in life.

Another important aspect of Chaitra Amavasya is Pitru Tarpan or offering water and food to one's ancestors. This ritual is done to express gratitude and respect to them and also to pacify their souls. It is believed that by doing Pitru Tarpan on Chaitra Amavasya, one can get rid of Pitru Dosha or ancestral curse that may cause problems in life.