Mouni Amavasya holds immense significance in Sanatan Dharma. It is the Amavasya (new moon) occurring in the month of Magha, dedicated to self-discipline, silent meditation, and holy baths. This year, Mouni Amavasya is especially significant as the third royal bath will take place during the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj on this day. The grand procession of saints and the sight of millions of devotees dipping in the Ganga is unique, as they come daily with full devotion to take a holy bath at the confluence (Sangam) while chanting the praises of God.
Mouni Amavasya 2025 Date and Auspicious Time
According to the Panchang, the date of Mouni Amavasya in the month of Magha will begin on January 28, 2025, at 7:35 PM and will end on January 29, 2025, at 6:05 PM. In Hinduism, the festival and auspicious moments are considered valid after sunrise, so Mouni Amavasya will be celebrated on January 29, 2025.
Importance of Mouni Amavasya
Mouni Amavasya is a day dedicated to self-purification and surrender to God. This fast purifies the mind and speech, enhancing spiritual energy. According to ancient beliefs, observing silence and bathing in the Ganga on this day removes all the sins of the soul.
As mentioned in the fifth chapter of the Srimad Bhagavad Gita:
“योगयुक्तो विशुद्धात्मा विजितात्मा जितेन्द्रियः ।
सर्वभूतात्मभूतात्मा कुर्वन्नपि न लिप्यते ॥ “
This means that the one who is united in yoga, whose soul is pure, who controls their mind and senses, and who sees the Supreme Self in the souls of all beings, never gets bound by actions, even while performing them.
The Third Amrit Snan of Maha Kumbh
The third Amrit Snan (nectar bath) of the 2025 Maha Kumbh will be a historic occasion. On this day, the grand procession of saints, Naga sadhus, and devotees will head towards the Sangam. As millions of devotee’s bathe in the Triveni Sangam of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the invisible Saraswati, they will purify their lives and receive spiritual energy.
The Glory of Donation
It is believed that giving donations on Mouni Amavasya brings immense merit. This year, due to the Maha Kumbh, the significance of this day has increased even more. In Hinduism, it is said that donations benefit not only the giver in this world but also in the afterlife. Donation brings ultimate salvation and betterment of the soul.
The importance of donation is extensively mentioned in the religious texts of Sanatan traditions. In the Mahabharata, the generous Karan, despite knowing the outcome, gave away his armor and earrings to Indra, who appeared in the guise of a beggar.
When Indra asked Karan for his armor and earrings, Surya, Karan’s father, warned him that by giving them away, he would risk his life. But Karan, being a generous soul, refused. After his bath at sunrise and offering prayers to Lord Surya, anyone who asked Karan for anything was sure to receive it.
Hence, when Indra appeared before him, Karan handed over the armor and earrings, without hesitation, stating:
“ वृणोमि कीर्ति लोके हि जीवितेनापि भानुमन्।
कीर्तिमानश्नुते स्वर्गे हीनकीर्तिस्तु नश्यति।।.”
Meaning: “O Surya Dev! I would rather choose to live in the world with glory, even if it costs me my life. The one who has lost their glory is doomed.”
Thus, Karan gave away his armor and earrings without the slightest reluctance, earning the title of Daanveer (the one who gives generously).
What to Donate on Mouni Amavasya?
On Mouni Amavasya, donating food is considered the most auspicious. You can become part of the noble cause by donating to Narayan Seva Sansthan to help feed the poor and underprivileged.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: When is Mouni Amavasya 2025?
A: Mouni Amavasya in 2025 will be observed on January 29.
Q: What should one donate on Mouni Amavasya?
A: On Mouni Amavasya, one should donate food, clothes, and meals to those in need.
