Hindu Festival - Somvati Amavasya

Somvati Amavasya, or Amavasi is the no moon day that falls on a Monday. In June, the Somvati Amavasya is falling today i.e. June 22, 2009.
It is a tradition among Hindus to take a dip in the holy rivers on the occasion of Somvati Amavasya.Devout Hindus from all over the country have begun arriving at on the banks of the Ganga in Haridwar and the Sangam in Allahabad to take a dip in its waters. According to mythology, in the Mahabharata, Bheesma expounded the importance of Somvati Amavasya to Yudhishtra, the eldest of the Pandavas. It is said that a dip in the holy rivers on this day would lead to prosperity, health and a life free from grief and sorrow.

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Well, the importance of Somwati Amavasya can be gauged from the fact that Northern Railway arranges special trains to handle the rush. It is believed that by taking a dip in the holy rivers the soul of ancestors will rest in peace.

It is customary for married women to take a dip in the river for a happy family life and for the long life of husbands. The pipal tree is also worshipped on this day.

Do tell us your experience of the Somvati Amavasya.

My grandmother makes it a point to visit Haridwar every time there is a Somvati Amavasya. This time she took me along. My, the crowds at Haridwar - literally teeming with people. Truly, faith can move millions.