Shani Amavasya 2023: According to the Hindu calendar, people observe Mauni (silence) Amavasya throughout India today, January 21. This is the first Amavasya (New Moon) of the year 2023. 

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As the name suggests, it is also the day of silence in Hinduism. On this day, people with the Hindu faith take a pledge to keep a vow of silence (Maun Vrat) throughout the day.

For the first time in 20 years, Mauni Amavasya has fallen on Saturday. When an Amavasya falls on a Saturday, it is called Shanishchari Amavasya or Shani Amavasya. 

Mauni Amavasya 2023: Date and Time
Amavasya Tithi Begins - 06:17 AM on Jan 21, 2023
Amavasya Tithi Ends - 02:22 AM on Jan 22, 2023

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Mauni Amavasya 2023 - Beliefs
According to the Drikpanchang, it is believed that the water of the most sacred and holy river in Hinduism -- the Ganga -- turns into nectar on Mauni Amavasya. However, people take dip in the Ganges on this day, as per Hindu traditions.

5 things to do on Mauni Amavasya 2023
- Amavasya Tithi is considered dedicated to the ancestors. So on this day Shradh, Tarpan, Pinddaan, worship, donation, etc must be performed for ancestors.

- Ganga bath has special significance on Mauni Amavasya. However, it is impossible for many to go to the river Ganges for a bath. In such a situation, people take a bath by mixing Gangajal in bathing water.

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- Mauni Amavasya and (Shainvar) Saturday have coincided after many decades. On such a special day, worshipping Shani Dev is considered auspicious. People keep mustard oil lamps under the Peepal (banyan) tree.

- There is special importance in being silent on Mauni Amavasya. However, it is difficult for people to remain silent for the whole day amid a busy day. The alternative is to remain silent at least till the time of bath and donation and advised to chant the Almighty's name in mind during silence.

- Worshiping the Peepal tree on Amavasya day is also considered auspicious. People offer some milk mixed sugar also called mishri in Hindi to the Peepal tree.