Hariyali Amavasya / Aadi Amavasai / Karkidaka Vavu

This new moon day, observed during the monsoon month of Shravana, is known by different names across Indian regions: Hariyali Amavasya in North India, Aadi Amavasai in Tamil Nadu, and Karkidaka Vavu in Kerala, but shares a common thread of ancestor worship and reverence for nature. In North India, 'Hariyali,' meaning greenery, reflects the tradition of tree planting and celebrating the lush monsoon landscape, alongside worship of Lord Shiva and Parvati. In Tamil Nadu, Aadi Amavasai is dedicated to performing tarpanam, rituals of remembrance and offerings for deceased ancestors, typically at riverbanks or the sea. In Kerala, Karkidaka Vavu holds similar significance, with families performing Bali Tarpanam at coastal and riverside locations to honor departed relatives during the Malayalam month of Karkidakam, considered a time of spiritual cleansing ahead of the harvest festival season.