Page:Hindu Feasts Fasts and Ceremonies.djvu/33

Rh Manes they are said to become disgusted with him and return to the world of Yama after cursing their descendants in this world. Vrichchhika darsanat yanti nirasa pitaro gatah.

Such is the belief about the Mahalaya Amavasa and the two lunar fortnights which precede and succeed it. The month of Kanya is thus reserved for the worship of departed spirits and the most propitious portion of the month for such worship is the fortnight preceding the Mahalaya Amavasa. Generally speaking, every Hindu strictly observes his Mahalaya. If he is careless about it, he will find it difficult to have a peaceful time with the old ladies in his house.