The month of Sawan is known for devotion to Lord Shiva and peace for ancestors. The Amavasya (new moon) of this month is called 'Hariyali Amavasya,' which falls on July 24th in 2025. On this day, taking a dip in the Ganges, performing Tarpan (offering water to ancestors), and charity have special significance. However, few people know that the tradition of performing Nandi Mukha Shradh on this day is also very old, and doing so brings the grace of ancestors and many positive changes in life.
What is Nandi Mukha Shradh?
Nandi Mukha Shradh is also known as 'Abhyudayika Shradh' in Sanskrit. It means a Shradh that paves the way for auspiciousness and progress. This Shradh is different from the general Preta Shradh (Shradh for departed souls). In Nandi Mukha, the word 'Nandi' means joy, and 'Mukha' means beginning. This Shradh is performed for happiness, prosperity, and the beginning of auspicious works in life.
Why Perform Nandi Mukha Shradh on Hariyali Amavasya?
According to scriptures and Puranas, the gates of Pitru Lok (the world of ancestors) are open on the Amavasya of Sawan, and the Shradh, Tarpan, and donations made on this day directly benefit the ancestors. Performing Nandi Mukha Shradh on this day brings positive energy into life and removes obstacles in auspicious works.
This day is especially important for those who are planning a marriage, housewarming, new job, business, or any other auspicious event. It is believed that if Nandi Mukha Shradh is performed before these events, everything becomes auspicious with the grace of the ancestors.
How to Perform Nandi Mukha Shradh?
The procedure for Nandi Mukha Shradh is described in detail in the Vedas and Puranas. To perform it properly, some specific actions are taken:
- First, Matrika Pujan (worship of the mother goddesses) is performed.
- After this, there is the process of Vasordhara, in which a special stream of water is offered on the Pindas (rice balls).
- Then, Sapind, Pind Rahit, Amann, and Hem Shradhi Karma are performed.
- The process also includes purification, Achaman (sipping water for purification), Shikha Bandhan (tying the hair knot), Asana Shuddhi (purification of the seat), Pranayama (breathing exercises), Panchgavya Nirman (preparation of Panchgavya), Sankalp (resolve), Pind Daan (offering rice balls), Brahmin Bhojan (feeding Brahmins), and blessings etc.
- On this day, food is prepared with devotion and according to the rules and fed to Brahmins, and Dakshina (offering) is given.
Where Should Nandi Mukha Shradh be Performed?
If possible, the merit of Nandi Mukha Shradh increases manifold if it is performed at pilgrimage sites like the Ganges River, Haridwar, Gaya, Prayagraj. But if it is not possible to go on a pilgrimage, this Shradh can also be performed at home in the presence of Brahmins.
What are the Benefits of Nandi Mukha Shradh?
Performing this Shradh brings several benefits:
- All auspicious works in life are completed without obstacles.
- Relief from Pitru Dosha (ancestral curse) is obtained, and peace resides in the lineage.
- Family members receive health and longevity.
- Along with the grace of the deities, one also gets freedom from serpent दोष ( सर्प दोष ).
- Happiness, peace, and prosperity increase in the home and family.
Can Everyone Perform this Shradh?
Yes, anyone who desires peace for the souls of their ancestors and happiness and prosperity in their life can perform this Shradh. However, it is better to take the help of qualified Brahmins so that all the rituals can be performed according to the scriptures.
Mythological Significance is also Associated
This Shradh is mentioned in the Shiva Purana and Garuda Purana. Lord Shiva told Mother Parvati about the importance of Nandi Mukha Shradh, how it satisfies the ancestors and blesses their descendants. This is why this Shradh has a special place in many Sanatan traditions even today.
Other Activities Related to Hariyali Amavasya
There is also a tradition of planting trees on this day. Planting sacred trees like Peepal, Tulsi, Neem is considered especially meritorious. Along with this, there is also a tradition of donating food, clothes, water vessels, umbrellas, slippers, etc. to the poor.
The Fruit of Shradh Comes from Faith
While performing Nandi Mukha Shradh, it should be kept in mind that there should be complete faith in mind, speech, and action. Only then does one get its full benefit, and the grace of the ancestors remains.
