Tue Oct 01 23:36:40 UTC 2024: ## Mahalaya Amavasya 2024: Honouring Ancestors on October 2nd
**Hyderabad, September 30, 2024:** As per Hindu tradition, Mahalaya Amavasya, which falls on October 2nd this year, holds immense significance in honoring ancestors. This day marks the end of the Bhadrapada month and is considered an auspicious occasion to perform tarpanam (ritual offering) for departed souls.
According to religious scholars, performing tarpanam on any day within the paksha (fortnight) is beneficial, but Mahalaya Amavasya is particularly important. They believe that offering tarpanam on this day ensures the blessings of ancestors on the family lineage.
The importance of this day is further highlighted by its mention in the epic Mahabharata, a sacred Hindu scripture. The scholars advise performing pitru shraddhas (ancestral rites) and offering anna santharpana (food donation) on Mahalaya Amavasya for auspicious outcomes.
For those unable to conduct elaborate rituals, donating basic essentials like rice, lentils, and salt to Brahmins is also considered beneficial. Similarly, providing food to the elderly, poor, and those in distress can bring positive karma.
Scholars emphasize the profound spiritual benefit of worshipping ancestors on Mahalaya Amavasya, claiming it surpasses the merit gained from worshipping deities. They assert that offering tarpanam on this day pleases seven generations of ancestors.
First Piper 