Mauni Amavasya
Mauni Amavasya, also known as ‘Mauna Amavasya’ is a unique Hindu tradition observed on the Amavasya (no moon day) during the Hindu month of Magha. It falls during the month of January-February as per the Gregorian calendar. Mauni Amavasya is also referred to as ‘Maghi Amavasya’ as it is observed in the month of Magha. The word ‘mauni’ or ‘mauna’ signifies silence, therefore on this chosen day, most of the Hindus observe complete silence.
There is another significant ritual associated with this day known as Mauni Amavasya Snan. This practice of taking a holy bath is very predominant during the Kumbh Mela and Magha Mela.
Mauni Amavasya is a day dedicated to spiritual sadhana. This practice is very popular in different parts of the country, especially in northern India. The celebrations of this festival are very distinguished in Allahabad, in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. During the Kumbh Mela in Prayag (Allahabad), Mauni Amavasya is the most important day for bathing in the holy Ganges and is popularly referred to as the day of ‘Kumbh Parva’ or ‘Amrit Yoga’. In Andhra Pradesh, Mauni Amavasya is celebrated as ‘Chollangi Amavasya’ and it is also known as ‘Darsh Amavasya’ in other regions of India. Mauni Amavasya is therefore a day to attain knowledge, happiness, and wealth.
Significance of Mauni Amavasyav
In the Hindu religion, practicing silence or ‘mauna’ forms an integral part of spiritual discipline. The word ‘mauni’ comes from another Hindi word ‘muni’ meaning a ‘sanyasi’ (saint), who is a person practicing silence. Hence the term ‘mauna’ aptly symbolizes attaining oneness with self. In ancient times, renowned Hindu guru Adi Shankaracharya himself stated ‘mauna’ to be one of the three foremost attributes of a saint. In modern times, Ramana Maharshi, a Hindu Guru propagated the practice of silence for spiritual attainment. For him, silence is more powerful than thought or speech and it unites an individual with its self. An individual must practice Mauni Amavasya to calm a restless mind.
The practice of taking a dip in the holy waters is also very significant for Hindu followers. As per the Hindu scriptures, it is believed that on the auspicious day of Mauni Amavasya, the water in the holy river of Ganges turns nectar. Therefore on this day devotees from far and wide take a bath in the holy Ganga River. Not only this, the whole of the month of ‘Magha’ right from Paush Purnima to Magha Purnima is ideal for the bathing ritual, but the most significant is the day of Mauni Amavasya.
