Mauni Amavasya 2026 – Date, Rituals, Significance & Kumbh Mela Bathing

Mauni Amavasya falls on the 15th day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) of the month of Magh (January–February).
The word Mauni comes from the Sanskrit word “Mauna”, which means silence. A person who observes silence is called a Mauni.
Amavasya refers to the new moon day, when the moon is not visible.

On Mauni Amavasya, both the Sun and the Moon are positioned in the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara Rashi). This rare alignment is believed to offer high spiritual merit.

Auspiciousness of Mauni Amavasya

The day is considered especially auspicious if it falls on a Monday.
Its spiritual importance increases greatly during a Kumbh Mela year.
In Andhra Pradesh, this day is known as Chollangi Amavasya, while in other parts of India it is called Darsha Amavasya.

Puranic Beliefs

According to the Puranas, Manu Rishi appeared on Mauni Amavasya.
It is also believed that creation of the world began on this sacred day.

Mauni Amavasya and Kumbh Mela

Mauni Amavasya is one of the most important bathing days of the Kumbh Mela.
On this day, lakhs of devotees take a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the invisible Saraswati rivers, near Prayagraj (Allahabad).

Bathing on this day is regarded as a “Raj Snan” (royal bath).
It holds special importance for the Akhadas from Varanasi, Junagadh, Nashik, and Ayodhya.

Observances and Rituals