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| MAHALAYA
AMAVASYA |
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| Based on :
Appearance of Moon |
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| Religion :
Hindu |
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| Celebrated on
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New Moon Light |
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Mahalaya Amavasya
The dark fortnight of Aswayuja is known as the Mahalaya Paksha or the fortnight
specially sacred for offering oblations to the departed ancestors. The last day
of this period, the new moon day, is considered as the most important day in
the year for performing obsequies and rites. |
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| The renowned hero of the Mahabharata, Karna,
when he left the mortal coil, ascended to the higher worlds and the great
charity he had done here was returned to him hundredfold. But, it was all gold
and silver; there was no food, as he had not done any food-charity! He prayed
to the god of death. So, he was sent back to earth for fourteen days, to make
up for this deficiency.
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| For fourteen days, he fed Brahmins and the
poor, and offered oblations of water. On his return to the higher regions, he
had food in plenty. It is these fourteen days that are commemorated in the
Mahalaya Paksha. Due to the grace of the god of death, it has been ordained
that offerings made during this period benefit all the departed souls, whether
they are connected to you or not. |
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| Charity in the form of food is important
during this observance. Life depends upon food. You cannot preach religion to
empty stomachs. This human body is the most important vehicle for realising
God. How precious must food be which keeps the body fit for Yogal The gift of
food is the greatest gift. Therefore, give food in plenty, not only during the
Mahalaya fortnight but all through the year. |
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| Om Tat Sat
Brahmaparnamastu |
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