Amavasya is the new moon day in the Hindu lunar calendar, which is considered a significant day for performing certain rituals and practices. When someone dies on amavasya, it is believed to have some spiritual significance in Hindu culture, and the mourning process and funeral rituals may differ from those performed on other days.
The rituals and customs followed during a person's death on amavasya may vary based on regional and family traditions. However, some common practices include:
Funeral arrangements: The deceased person's body is typically cremated or buried as per local customs and beliefs.
Mourning period: The mourning period, known as "antim vidhi," usually lasts for a specific number of days, depending on the community and family traditions.
Poojas and rituals: Special poojas (prayer ceremonies) may be performed on the amavasya day and during the mourning period to honor the departed soul and seek blessings for their peaceful transition to the afterlife.
Offering prayers to ancestors: Hindus believe that performing rituals and offering prayers on amavasya can help appease the departed soul and bring peace to their ancestors.
Charity and feeding the needy: It is considered auspicious to perform acts of charity and feed the needy during the mourning period, as it is believed to bring positive karma to the departed soul.
Visiting holy places: Some families may undertake pilgrimages or visit holy places during the mourning period to seek blessings and perform rites for the deceased.
It's important to note that these customs and practices may differ based on cultural and regional variations within Hinduism. The beliefs and rituals associated with death on amavasya are deeply rooted in religious traditions and provide a way for the bereaved to cope with their loss and show respect for the departed soul.