Darsha Amavasya is a Hindu festival that is celebrated on the no moon night (Amavasya Tithi) of every lunar month. The word 'Darsha' means 'sight' or 'vision'. The festival is named so because it is believed that one can have a glimpse of their departed ancestors on this night. The festival is also known as Darsh Amavasi or Darshana Amavasya.
The festival is observed by performing various rituals for the peace and salvation of the souls of the deceased ancestors. These rituals include:
- Taking a sacred bath in a river, lake or pond
- Offering prayers to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi
- Performing Shraddha rites and Tarpan (water offering) for the ancestors at home, temple or river bank
- Feeding Brahmins (priests) or poor people with food, clothes or money
- Chanting mantras and reading scriptures
The significance of Darsha Amavasya is:
- It commemorates the legend of King Harishchandra who regained his lost kingdom and family after performing Shraddha rites for his son on this day
- It symbolizes the respect and gratitude of devotees towards their ancestors who have given them life and blessings
- It represents the importance of charity and compassion for helping others in need
- It reflects the balance between darkness and light in nature and human life
Darsha Amavasya is a festival of ancestor worship and charity that honors the memory and legacy of our forefathers. It is a festival of spirituality and salvation that connects us with God and our roots. It is a festival of humility and generosity that inspires us to be kind and benevolent.