🌿 Hariyali Amavasya 2025: Significance, Rituals, and Festive Traditions in India 🌿

_Shokesh _
Jul 24
3 min read

🌱 What is Hariyali Amavasya?

Hariyali Amavasya is observed on the Amavasya (no moon) day during the holy month of Shravan (Sawan), especially in North and Central India. The word ‘Hariyali’ means greenery, and this day marks the beginning of lush green monsoon across India. It's a celebration of nature, new beginnings, and spiritual rejuvenation.

It is considered highly auspicious for planting trees, performing Pitra Puja, and seeking blessings from Lord Shiva and Parvati, as well as ancestors.

🌼 Why is Hariyali Amavasya Celebrated?

To welcome the monsoon and greenery – Farmers and devotees celebrate nature’s bounty.
To honor ancestors – Pitru Puja and tarpan are performed.
To worship Lord Shiva – Sawan is the month of Lord Shiva; this Amavasya is especially dedicated to Him.
To begin new initiatives – Many people plant trees, donate to the needy, and perform rituals for health, wealth, and peace.

🕉️ Rituals Performed on Hariyali Amavasya

Pitru Tarpan and Shraddh: Offering water, black sesame, and prayers to departed ancestors near a river or peepal tree.
Deep Daan: Lighting a diya under the Peepal tree or near holy rivers.
Tree Plantation: Banyan, Peepal, Neem, Tulsi, and Belpatra trees are planted.
Shiv Puja: Devotees offer milk, water, bael leaves, and perform Rudrabhishek.
Charity: Donation of green clothes, grains, and umbrellas to Brahmins and the poor.
Vrat (Fasting): Many observe a fast and consume only Satvik food after sunset.

🛕 Where is Hariyali Amavasya Celebrated?

Hariyali Amavasya is especially significant in:

Rajasthan (Udaipur): Hariyali Amavasya Mela at Fateh Sagar Lake – a grand fair of greenery, cultural programs, and joy.
Uttar Pradesh: Temples in Varanasi, Mathura, Ayodhya witness large Shiva Pujas.
Madhya Pradesh: In places like Bhopal, large-scale tree plantations and Shiva temples organize special events.
Maharashtra: Observed by farmers and women for prosperity and fertility.
Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh: Rural communities worship trees and celebrate seasonal change.

🍲 What to Eat on Hariyali Amavasya?

Satvik Bhojan: Khichdi, fruits, milk, kheer (without onion/garlic).
Falahar: Sabudana, peanuts, and coconut dishes for those fasting.
Special Sweets: Peda, laddu, kheer, and ghee-based prasad.

🎋 Utsav and Cultural Practices

Hariyali Fairs: Especially in Rajasthan, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
Folk Songs and Dances: Women sing Sawan songs and perform Ghoomar or local folk dances.
Group Tree Plantation Drives: Schools, temples, and social groups come together.
Women Perform Shiva-Parvati Puja: Wearing green sarees, bangles, and mehendi as a symbol of marital bliss.