Vedic Rishi

Somvati Amavasya is the new moon day or the no moon day that falls on a Monday (Somvar).

The significance of Somvati Amavasya was explained by Bhisma to Yudhishtra in the Mahabharata. It is said that who ever takes a dip in the important rivers on the day would be prosperous, free of diseases and would be free from grief and sorrow. It is also believed that by taking a dip in the holy rivers the soul of ancestors will rest in peace. Married women take the holy dip for a happy family life and for the long life of husbands. They also worship the pipal tree. Somavara Amavasya Vrata (fasting) is observed for a long and happy married life. Many devout Hindus also fast on the day and some people only have a single meal. On the day thousands of people take a dip in Ganga at Haridwar, Triveni and other places.

Significance of Amavasya

After the Kurukshetra war, Yudhistira was anxious with the Kuru pandava dynasty and asked Bhishma to advice something to rejuvenate the dynasty for his coming generations. Bhishma suggested Dharmaraj to observe Somvati Amavasya Vrata. He also explained him the merits of this vrata as whoever observes the Amavasya Somvara Vrata would get long living and noble children.

Amavasya, or Amavasi, is the name of new moon night in Hindu religion. It is the first night of the first quarter of the lunar month. Since the moon is invisible on the day, Amavasya is also referred as no moon night. Amavasi holds great importance in Hinduism. Many Hindus choose this day to make offering (tharpanam) to the Pitar.
Symbolically, the period from Amavasya to Purnima (full moon) is considered to be the gradual awakening and transcendence into the fullness. From darkness to the gradual realization of the Supreme Soul.