Mahalaya describes one of the phases of Pitru Paksha and falls at the end of the fortnight of Ashwin during a New Moon day. It marks the beginning of the Mahalaya Paksha or Pitru Paksha, which is a 16-day sacred lunar period in Hinduism according to the Panchang.

It is believed that during Mahalaya Amavasya, certain energy in nature which facilitates the human beings to experience oneness with the divine, is at its pinnacle. This Mahalaya Amavasya is the perfect time to respect every elder who has contributed to our present life.

Mahalaya Amavasya, the final day of this phase, is regarded as the most fortunate day for carrying out shraddha and rituals.

If someone is unable to perform the ritual of shradh during the Pitru Paksha, they can perform it on the Sarva Pitru Amavasya. This time is also considered equally good to connect to the ancestors. There are several benefits of this tithi and is a good time to offer your prayers to those whom you have lost.

As per astrology, this day is considered very beneficial to offer shraadh to ancestors and free them from negative energies. This is an auspicious day to pray for them. Also, humans attract energies to fight evil on Amavasya as planets release more energy on Amavasya and human radiation perceives it.

Amavasya is a Sanskrit word that refers to the lunar phase of the New moon.

A child born in Amavasya can be born with birth defects that can lead to mental slowness. It is believed that children born in Amavasya are not very bright in academics since Planet Jupiter is the Lord of intelligence.