In Hinduism, the month of Sawan is considered extremely sacred for the worship of Lord Shiva. The new moon day (Amavasya) falling within this holy month is known as Hariyali Amavasya. This festival is regarded as a special occasion to express gratitude towards nature and to perform *Tarpan* (ritual offering of water) for one's ancestors. It is believed that performing *Tarpan*, *Pind Daan* (offering of rice balls), and worship on this day invokes the blessings of the ancestors.

Bathing in holy rivers and engaging in acts of charity and meritorious deeds hold special significance on this day; these actions please the ancestors. Performing *Tarpan* and *Pind Daan* on this day is believed to help ancestors attain *Moksha* (liberation). If, for some reason, a person is unable to perform these specific rituals, the blessings of the ancestors can still be obtained through other prescribed measures. Let us learn about the remedies mentioned in the scriptures, as explained by Pandit Anand Bhardwaj from Ujjain.

When will Hariyali Amavasya be observed during Sawan?
According to the Vedic calendar, the *Amavasya* (new moon) tithi of the Sawan month will begin at 1:54 AM on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, and continue until 11:07 PM on Wednesday, August 12, 2026. Based on the *Udaya Tithi* (the sunrise tithi), Hariyali Amavasya will be celebrated on August 12.

Why should trees be planted on Hariyali Amavasya?
The festival of Hariyali Amavasya is deeply connected to the environment. It is a time for worshipping nature, pledging to protect the environment, and giving back to the natural world. Therefore, planting trees and donating saplings at places such as homes, temples, riverbanks, pilgrimage sites, and *Dharamshalas* (pilgrim rest houses) on this day yields spiritual merit. It is said that as the sapling grows, the person who planted it receives auspicious rewards.

Plant these trees to please your ancestors.
Worshipping the Peepal tree on Hariyali Amavasya is considered highly auspicious. Doing so brings the ancestors' blessings to the devotee. To seek relief from *Pitra Dosh* (ancestral affliction), you can plant a Peepal sapling at a temple or a public place on this day. This pleases the ancestors, who in turn bless the devotee with happiness and prosperity. It is said that the blessings of one's ancestors endure for seven lifetimes.

Be sure to follow these measures:
– On Hariyali Amavasya, those grappling with financial difficulties should plant a Tulsi, Amla, Banana, or Bel tree. It is believed that this pleases Goddess Lakshmi and brings happiness and prosperity to the home.

– Those who do not yet have children should plant Neem, Bel, Nagkeshar, or Ashwagandha saplings on Hariyali Amavasya. This pleases the ancestral deities, who then bestow the blessing of progeny.

– If success remains elusive despite persistent hard work, planting Neem and shady trees on Hariyali Amavasya is considered auspicious. It is believed that this fosters positive energy.

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