Table of Contents
Introduction
Masya, also known as Amavasya, is the new moon day in the lunar calendar when the moon is not visible in the sky. It marks the end of a lunar cycle and the beginning of a new lunar month. Masya is considered a significant day in Hindu and Sikh traditions for religious rituals, fasting, charity, and remembrance of ancestors.
In this article, we will explore the importance of Masya, its connection with lunar calendars, and the complete list of Masya dates for 2025 according to the Desi (Bikrami) Calendar and Islamic Calendar.
What is Masya (Amavasya)?
Masya is the darkest night of the month when the moon is completely absent from the night sky. It is observed as a day of:
- Spiritual cleansing and meditation
- Offering food and prayers for ancestors (Pitru Paksha)
- Fasting and charity in Hinduism and Sikhism
- Performing religious rituals such as Shradh and Daan
Masya is also closely linked with lunar-based festivals and plays a crucial role in determining auspicious and inauspicious days in the Hindu and Sikh calendars.
Masya and the Desi (Bikrami) Calendar
Masya follows the Desi (Bikrami) Calendar, which is a lunar-solar calendar traditionally used in Punjab, India, and Pakistan. Unlike the Gregorian Calendar, which is purely solar-based, the Bikrami Calendar adjusts its months based on moon phases.
Masya determines many important religious observances in Hinduism and Sikhism. Unlike Sangrand, which follows the solar transition, Masya aligns with lunar movements.
For more details about Desi Month Date Today and their significance, please check this link: Desi Month Date Today: A Comprehensive Guide
Masya Dates for 2025 (New Moon Days)
Below is a table with the Masya dates for 2025, along with the corresponding Islamic calendar dates and the day of the week:
| Sr. No. | Masya Date (New Moon Day) | Islamic Date | Day of the Week |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | January 29, 2025 | Rajab 28, 1446 | Wednesday |
| 2. | February 28, 2025 | Sha’ban 29, 1446 | Friday |
| 3. | March 30, 2025 | Ramadan 28, 1446 | Sunday |
| 4. | April 28, 2025 | Shawwal 28, 1446 | Monday |
| 5. | May 27, 2025 | Dhu al-Qi’dah 28, 1446 | Tuesday |
| 6. | June 25, 2025 | Dhu al-Hijjah 28, 1446 | Wednesday |
| 7. | July 25, 2025 | Muharram 28, 1447 | Friday |
| 8. | August 23, 2025 | Safar 28, 1447 | Saturday |
| 9. | September 22, 2025 | Rabi’ al-Awwal 28, 1447 | Monday |
| 10. | October 22, 2025 | Rabi’ al-Thani 28, 1447 | Wednesday |
| 11. | November 20, 2025 | Jumada al-Awwal 28, 1447 | Thursday |
| 12. | December 20, 2025 | Jumada al-Thani 28, 1447 | Saturday |
Religious Significance of Masya
1. Masya in Hinduism
In Hindu traditions, Masya is considered a powerful day for spiritual and ancestral rituals. It is believed that performing Shradh (offering prayers to ancestors) on Masya brings peace to departed souls.
2. Masya in Sikhism
In Sikhism, Masya is observed as a day of reflection and remembrance. It is not associated with specific rituals but is considered an important day for self-discipline, meditation, and prayers.
3. Fasting and Charity on Masya
Many people observe fasting on Masya and engage in charity (daan), feeding the poor, and donating to religious institutions. It is believed that helping the needy on Masya brings spiritual benefits.
Masya and Moon Phases
Masya is part of the lunar cycle and occurs when the moon is completely invisible due to its alignment between the Earth and the Sun. The following phases of the moon follow Masya:
- Shukla Paksha (Waxing Moon) – Starts after Masya and leads to Puranmashi (Full Moon).
- Krishna Paksha (Waning Moon) – Begins after Puranmashi and ends on the next Masya.
Masya Dates and Festivals
Some Hindu and Sikh festivals are connected to Masya:
- Maha Shivratri (occurs near Masya)
- Diwali (falls on Kartik Masya)
- Pitru Paksha (ancestor remembrance period)
- Buddha Purnima (falls after Vaishakh Masya)
How to Observe Masya?
1. Visit Temples and Gurdwaras
Many people visit temples and Gurdwaras on Masya to seek blessings and listen to spiritual discourses.
2. Perform Prayers for Ancestors
On Masya, people pray for the peace of their departed ancestors by offering food and water, known as Tarpan.
3. Observe Fasting
Fasting is observed by many Hindus as an act of self-discipline and purification. It may include fruit-based meals or complete abstinence from food.
4. Engage in Charity (Daan)
Giving food, clothes, and money to the needy is considered auspicious on Masya. Many people donate to orphanages, temples, and langars (free community kitchens).
FAQs About Masya (Amavasya)
1. What is Masya in the lunar calendar?
Masya, or Amavasya, is the new moon day when the moon is not visible, marking the end of a lunar month and the beginning of a new cycle.
2. Why is Masya important in Hinduism and Sikhism?
Masya is observed for spiritual reflection, fasting, and prayers. It is also a significant day for performing Shradh rituals for ancestors.
3. What is the difference between Masya and Sangrand?
- Masya follows the lunar cycle, occurring when the moon is invisible.
- Sangrand follows the solar cycle, marking the first day of a new solar month.
4. How often does Masya occur?
Masya occurs once a month, meaning there are 12 Masya dates in a year.
5. How is Masya calculated?
Masya is determined by astronomical calculations of the new moon phase and can slightly vary based on regional moon sightings.
Conclusion
Masya is an important day in the Desi (Bikrami) and Hindu calendars, marking the new moon phase and the beginning of a new lunar month. It holds spiritual significance for fasting, prayers, charity, and ancestor remembrance. Understanding Masya dates for 2025 helps individuals plan religious observances and participate in spiritual activities.
Mark your calendars and make the most of Masya 2025 for personal and spiritual growth!
