The month of Sawan holds special significance in Hinduism, and the *Amavasya* (new moon day) falling within this month is particularly important from a religious perspective. This specific *Amavasya* is known as 'Hariyali Amavasya'. The festival is associated with the worship of nature, ancestors, and Lord Shiva. It is believed that performing rituals with devotion, offering *Tarpan* (oblations) to ancestors, and donating to the needy on this day brings spiritual merit (*Punya*). Additionally, it is believed to usher happiness, prosperity, and positive energy into one's life. Planting trees and saplings on Hariyali Amavasya is also considered auspicious. Let us learn from Ujjain-based astrologer Anand Bhardwaj when the festival will be celebrated this year, its significance, and the activities one should undertake on this day.

According to the Vedic calendar, the *Amavasya* of the Sawan month will begin at 1:54 AM on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, and continue until 11:07 PM on Wednesday, August 12, 2026. Based on the *Udaya Tithi* (the sunrise date), Hariyali Amavasya will be celebrated on August 12. The *Amavasya* occurring during Sawan is called Hariyali Amavasya because, at this time, the rains cause greenery to spread all around; hence, this *Amavasya* is closely linked to nature and greenery.

Why is the *Amavasya* of the Sawan month special?
In Hinduism, the *Amavasya* date holds special religious importance. Performing *Tarpan* for ancestors, remembering them, and engaging in acts of charity and merit are considered auspicious on this day. Furthermore, since the month of Sawan is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the significance of worshipping Him is heightened on Hariyali Amavasya. This festival is also associated with nature conservation. It is believed that deities reside within trees and plants; therefore, planting saplings, tending to trees, and engaging in environmental conservation activities on this day are considered meritorious deeds. 

A Day Significant for Ancestors Too
The *Amavasya* (new moon) day is considered especially auspicious for remembering ancestors and performing acts of charity and merit in their honor. On Hariyali Amavasya, too, people reverently remember their ancestors and pray for the peace of their souls and their blessings. Helping the needy on this day is considered a virtuous act. Devotees may donate food, clothing, grains, or essential daily-use items to the poor according to their means; such acts strengthen both the spirit of service and religious devotion.

Essential Acts for Hariyali Amavasya
On this day, take a bath in the morning, meditate on Lord Shiva, and offer water to the *Shivling*. Afterward, while chanting the mantra ‘Om Namah Shivaya,’ remember your ancestors and pray for their peace. If possible, plant a sapling and pledge to care for it regularly. Feed the needy or make donations according to your capacity. It is believed that these actions not only generate positive energy and spiritual merit but also bring the blessings of one's ancestors.

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