Mauni Amavasya 2026: Date, Muhurat, and Significance

New Delhi, january 16, 2026: In 2026, Mauni Amavasya (also known as Maghi Amavasya) is one of the most spiritually significant days in the Hindu calendar. Falling during the holy month of Magha, this day is dedicated to silence, self-reflection, and ancestral rites.

The question of whether it falls on January 17 or 18 arises from the timing of the Amavasya Tithi (the lunar phase). Based on the Vedic Panchang and the principle of Udaya Tithi (the date prevailing at sunrise), the official day for celebration and the holy bath is January 18, 2026.

Mauni Amavasya 2026: Date and Shubh Muhurat

While the Tithi begins on the night of January 17, the most auspicious rituals—including the sacred dip in the Ganges—are observed on January 18.

Event	Date & Timing
Mauni Amavasya Date	Sunday, January 18, 2026
Amavasya Tithi Begins	January 17, 2026, at 12:03 AM (Midnight)
Amavasya Tithi Ends	January 19, 2026, at 01:21 AM
Brahma Muhurta (Ideal for Bath)	05:27 AM to 06:21 AM
Abhijit Muhurat	12:10 PM to 12:53 PM

Why is it called “Mauni” Amavasya?

The word Mauni is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Mauna’, meaning silence.

• The Vow of Silence: Devotees observe a Maun Vrat (vow of silence) on this day to practice self-control and discipline the mind. It is believed that by quieting the tongue, one can hear the inner voice and connect more deeply with the divine.
• Birth of Sage Manu: Tradition also suggests that this day marks the birth of Sage Manu, the progenitor of mankind, which adds to its religious importance.

Religious Significance and Rituals

Mauni Amavasya is considered the “King of all Amavasyas.” During the month of Magha, it is believed that the water of the holy river Ganga turns into nectar (Amrit).

1. The Holy Dip (Snan)

Taking a bath in a sacred river, especially at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj, is the most vital ritual. If you cannot visit a river, adding a few drops of Gangajal to your bathwater at home is said to provide similar spiritual benefits.

2. Ancestral Rites (Pitru Tarpan)

Amavasya is a day dedicated to ancestors. Performing Tarpan (offering water and black sesame seeds) and Pind Daan on this day helps in seeking the blessings of the departed souls and mitigating Pitru Dosha in one’s horoscope.

3. Charity (Daan)

Donation on this day is believed to yield “infinite fruits.” Recommended items for donation include:

• Sesame seeds (Til) and Jaggery (Gud)
• Warm clothes and blankets (as it falls in peak winter)
• Food grains and Ghee

4. Spiritual Practices

Many devotees worship Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva on this day. Chanting the Gayatri Mantra or Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya while maintaining silence is highly recommended for mental peace.

Things to Avoid

To maintain the sanctity of the day, certain activities should be avoided:

• Harsh Speech: If you cannot maintain complete silence, avoid using harsh or lying words.
• Non-vegetarian Food: Only Sattvic (pure) vegetarian food should be consumed.
• Conflicts: Avoid arguments or legal disputes to keep the mind calm and focused on spirituality.

Mauni Amavasya 2026 is an opportunity for a “spiritual reset.” Whether you are a pilgrim at the Magh Mela or observing from home, the day offers a unique chance for inner purification.