- By Kashish Rai
- Sun, 18 Jan 2026 10:40 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Magha Amavasya 2026: The new moon day in the month of Magha is known as Mauni Amavasya or Maghi Amavasya. This normally takes place in January or February. This day is very significant in Hindu culture. Mauni means silence. Thus, on this day, people take a vow of silence during the day and try to realise their internal selves. It is also believed that keeping silence on this day results in great spiritual benefits and mental peace. This year, Magha Amavasya or Mauni Amavasya will be observed on 18th January 2026.
Below are all the important details regarding the date, time, significance and rituals associated with this day:
Magha Amavasya 2026: Date And Time
Magha Amavasya 2026 Date: 18th January 2026, Sunday
Amavasya Tithi Begins: 12:04 AM, 18th January 2026
Amavasya Tithi Ends: 01:21 AM, 19th January 2026
Magha Amavasya 2026: Significance
In Hinduism, maintaining silence or observing a vow of silence has a great spiritual significance. The word Mauni originates from Muni, which is a Sanskrit name for a sage who acquires this attribute of silence in his ways. Even great gurus like Adi Shankaracharya and Ramana Maharshi have also viewed 'silence' as a viable medium to find self-realisation and mental peace. The vrat of Mauni Amavasya helps in pacifying the restless mind and enhances self-awareness.
There is also a traditional practice of taking a sacred dip in holy rivers on this day. It is mentioned in religious texts that the waters of the Ganges become as holy as nectar on this day of Mauni Amavasya. Therefore, people take dips in the holy river Ganges in large numbers.
Magha Amavasya is the sacred no-moon day that falls in the Hindu month of Magha. This day is considered highly significant for observing Maun Vrat or offering prayers to the ancestors. (Image Source: Canva)
Although the entire month of Magha (from Paush Purnima to Magha Purnima) is considered auspicious for bathing, the benefits of bathing and giving charity are considered greatest on Mauni Amavasya.
Magha Amavasya 2026: Rituals
On Mauni Amavasya, people wake up early in the morning and take a bath in the Ganges River. If it's not possible to go outside, they mix a little Ganges water with their bathwater at home and observe silence while bathing. Afterwards, they worship Lord Brahma and chant the Gayatri Mantra. Meditation and refraining from negative actions are considered very important on this day for achieving peace of mind.
Many followers keep silence or Maun Vrat throughout the day. It is not very easy to stay silent throughout the day. In that case, at least the devotee should refrain from speaking throughout the puja. Immersion or meditation in Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj is most auspicious on this day.
ALSO READ: 6 Things You Should NEVER Purchase On Amavasya Even By Mistake
This day is also considered ideal for seeking liberation from ancestral curses or Pitra Dosha. People perform Tarpan in the name of their ancestors and feed cows, dogs, or crows. Donating food and clothing to the poor and offering sesame oil to Lord Shani on Mauni Amavasya is considered highly auspicious.
(Disclaimer: This content includes advice providing generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified spiritual or astrological opinion. Always consult a specialist for more information before adopting any measures.)