Amavasya Vrat is the fasting and pujas performed on the no
moon day in a Hindu calendar. Here
is a brief account on how to observe Amavasya Vrat. Please note that there is
no one method to the question on how to do or perform Amavasya Fasting. General
rules apply in all regions but there will be minor regional variations.
Amavasya Fasting
Fasting is from sunrise to next day sunrise. One meal is
taken during the course of the day.
Which God to worship on Amavasya?
Shiva is worshipped on Amavasya day. You can also offer
prayers to Goddess Kali and any manifestation of Mother Goddess Shakti.
Puja on Amavasya
The puja should be simple. There should not be any major
puja. Offer prayers to Shiva and Mother Goddess by lighting lamp and doing
aarti. Chant the mantra ‘Om Namah Shivaya’ as many times as you can. Offer a
fruit.
What to eat during Amavasya fasting?
You should avoid salt, onion and garlic on the day. You
should not eat non-vegetarian food. The best option is to go for light
vegetarian food like dahi rice. Only one
meal should be taken on the day. You should drink lots of water. Avoid taking
sugary drinks. Pregnant women, elderly people, those taking medications or
having medical conditions should not perform the fasting.
The fast is broken next morning by offering puja
or by visiting a nearby shrine.