3 weeks ago

Hariyali Amavasya Blends Ancestor Gratitude with Green Tree Planting

Hariyali Amavasya Blends Ancestor Gratitude with Green Tree Planting
Hariyali Amavasya: Gratitude, Ancestors And The Green Tradition · freepressjournal.in

In India, there is a special day called Hariyali Amavasya.

It happens in the rainy season, when the first rains make the soil soft.

Soft, wet soil is perfect for planting new trees.

On this day, families remember their ancestors — great-grandfathers, grandfathers, fathers, and their wives — who have passed away.

They say thank you to them with a special prayer called Pitru tarpanam.

Many families also plant a sapling in the name of a loved one who is gone.

This is like a living gift that keeps growing.

People can plant the fruits their loved ones enjoyed, like mangoes or white guava.

Over time, these trees give shade, homes for birds, and food for people.

So Hariyali Amavasya helps families remember the past and make the world greener.

Key facts

Festival
Hariyali Amavasya (Ashadha Amavasya)
Season
Rainy season, after the first rains soften the soil
Main ritual
Pitru tarpanam — offerings of gratitude to ancestors
Ancestors remembered
Father, grandfather, and great-grandfather along with their spouses
Green tradition
Planting saplings in the name of departed elders
Month-counting methods
Amavasya-ending (Amantha) and Purnima-ending months
Planting guidance
Plants the departed loved, e.g., white guava and mango
Author
Dr. S. Ainavolu, Mumbai-based teacher

Sources

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