According to Hindu calendar, the Amavasya during waning moon (Krishna Paksha) in the month of Magha is named as Magha Amavasya or Mauni Amavasya. On this day, the person should stay silent (Maun) and take bath in the sacred water of Ganga, Yamuna or any other sacred river, lake or pond/pool. As per the spiritual beliefs, the ‘Mauni’ is originating from the word ‘Muni’. So, a person who fasts while being silent on this day attains the Muni form. The most important festival of bathing in the month of Magha is Amavasya. On this day, charity to the needy and bathing is of highest significance.

Magha Amavasya Vrat & Rituals

This day is of great importance in Hindu religion. The spiritual rituals, fasts and rites perform on Magha Amavasya are as follows:

1. On the day of Mauni Amavasya, take bath in a river, lake or holy reservoir in the early morning. After bathing, offers must be given to the Sun.
2. Remain silent while fasting on this day. Donate food to the poor and needy.
3. Give grains, garments, till, amla, blankets, beddings, ghee and food for the cow in the cowshed.
4. If you are monetarily stable, then donate cow, gold or you can also donate a land.
5. Like every Amavasya, one should remember their ancestors on Magha Amavasya as well. On this day, offering tribute to forefathers brings salvation to them.

Importance of Magha Amavasya

Stay silent on Magha Amavasya is of special importance. It has also been told that in case it seems impossible to remain silent, then do not speak foul or good language. In Vedic Astrology, moon is the signification of mind and on the day of Amavasya, there isn’t any presence of moon. This weakens the state of mind. That is why, it is told to keep a silent fast (Maun Vrat) on this day to keep your mind in control. It is customary to worship Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva on this day.