Vaishakh Amavasya (April) 2026: Date, Time And Rituals
Vaishakh Amavasya is a no-moon day that comes in the Hindu month of Vaishakh, which is usually in April. This is one of the important amavasyas, it is when people remember their ancestors, offer prayers, take a holy bath, and do good deeds.
If you’re wondering how to make this Amavasya meaningful, we’ve got everything covered. Let’s start by answering the first question: When is Amavasya in April?
Vaishakh Amavasya (April): Date and Timing
Vaishakh Amavasya 2026 falls on Friday, 17th April 2026.
Amavasya Tithi Begins: 08:14:10 PM on April 16, 2026
Amavasya Tithi Ends: 17:24:02 PM on April 17, 2026
Important note: Make sure to perform your rituals, Tarpan, and prayers within this tithi window for the best results.
Amavasya april date and time may vary slightly based on your city, so check the local panchang to be precise.
Also Check: Check all upcoming Amavasya dates in 2026 with exact timings and tithi details.
Chaitra Amavasya: Rituals to Follow for this Amavasya in April
The rituals of Vaishakh Amavasya are simple and full of meaning. Here is how you can observe this sacred day:
Wake Up Early and Take a Holy Bath: Wake up before sunrise and take a bath with clean water. Adding a few drops of Gangajal makes it even more auspicious.
Offer Tarpan to Your Ancestors: Stand near water and offer a mix of water and black sesame seeds (til) to your ancestors. Chant their names and pray for their peace.
Visit a Peepal Tree: Pour water at the roots of a Peepal tree in the morning and light a mustard oil lamp near it in the evening. Walk around it with folded hands.
Worship Lord Vishnu: Offer tulsi leaves, yellow flowers, and fruits. Chant "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya" to invite peace and prosperity into your home.
Do Charity (Daan): Donate food, clothes, or money to someone in need. Feeding crows is also a special tradition; it is believed that your offering goes directly to your ancestors.
Light a Diya in the Evening: Light a mustard oil lamp near the Tulsi plant or at your entrance. It removes negativity and fills your home with positive energy.
Fasting Rules and What to Eat on Vaishakh Amavasya
Many devotees observe a fast on Vaishakh Amavasya. If you plan to fast, here are some simple rules to follow:
Fasting Rules
Avoid onion, garlic, non-vegetarian food, and outside food throughout the day.
You can choose between Nirjala (no food or water) or Phalhar (fruits, milk, and light homemade food). Always choose based on your health.
Whatever you eat must be simple, pure, and home-cooked.
Do not break your fast before completing the evening prayers.
What to Eat
Fruits like bananas, apples, and mangoes
Milk, curd, and homemade sweets without grains
Sabudana (tapioca), peanuts, and dry fruits
Root vegetables like potatoes and sweet potatoes
Vaishakh Amavasya Significance
The amavasya in April carries deep spiritual significance. Here is why this amavasya is important.
1. Best Day for Pitru Puja
Vaishakh Amavasya is considered highly powerful for offering Tarpan and Shraddha. It is believed to bring peace to ancestors and blessings to the family.
2. Holy Bath Brings Blessings
Taking a dip in sacred rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, or Godavari is considered highly auspicious. It is believed to cleanse past sins and attract good fortune.
3. Time for New Beginnings
This Amavasya is ideal for letting go of negativity and starting fresh. Prayers done with a pure heart are believed to bring clarity and peace.
4. Reduces Pitru Dosha
Performing rituals and offering food on this day can help reduce Pitru Dosha. It is said to remove obstacles and restore harmony in life.
The Story Behind Vaishakh Amavasya
The most famous story linked to this day is about Savitri and Satyavan.
Long ago, there was a devoted wife named Savitri. Her husband, Satyavan, was kind and good, but he was destined to die at a young age. The day fixed for his death fell on Vaishakh Amavasya.
When that day came, Savitri followed her husband into the forest. Yama, the God of Death, arrived to take Satyavan’s soul. But Savitri did not give up. She followed Yama and spoke to him with wisdom, courage, and deep love.
Yama was moved by her devotion and intelligence. He offered her blessings, anything except her husband’s life. Savitri asked for her wishes so wisely that in the end, Yama had to return Satyavan’s life.
This story is at the heart of Vaishakh Amavasya. It teaches us that true love, faith, and determination can even change destiny. On this day, many women pray for the long life and good health of their husbands, remembering Savitri’s devotion.
Now that you know the story and understand the meaning of this Amavasya, let’s look at the rituals you can follow to make the most of this sacred day.
Vaishakh Amavasya: Modern Relevance
This April Amavasya is not just about the darkness in the sky, but also about the darkness within us. And sometimes, when there is no moon outside, we are reminded to become the light ourselves.
In April 2026, as the summer heat rises and life moves quickly, take one quiet day to slow down. Light a diya. Offer a prayer. Do one simple act of kindness.
So, let’s pause and reflect, remember our roots, appreciate what we have, and share something with those who have less.










