What is Kaushiki Amavasya?
Kaushiki Amavasya is a spiritually powerful and sacred new moon day observed by devotees and Tantric practitioners. This night is especially significant for the worship of Maa Tara, the second Mahavidya among the ten forms of Divine Mother (Dasha Mahavidya). Performing her puja on this day is believed to bring quick spiritual results and divine grace.
The word ‘Kaushiki’ refers to a divine manifestation of Goddess Durga. According to the Brahmanda Purana and Devi Purana, Kaushiki Devi emerged from the divine radiance of Goddess Chandika’s body to vanquish the demons Shumbha and Nishumbha. Hence, when the new moon (Amavasya) is associated with Kaushiki Devi, it becomes a very auspicious time for Shakti worship and Tantric sadhana.
Kaushiki Amavasya usually falls in the Bhadra month (August–September) and is often regarded as a part of the ‘Gupta Navaratri’ (the secret Navaratri for Tantric worship).
Why is Maa Tara Puja So Special on This Day?
Maa Tara, a fierce and compassionate form of Shakti, is one of the ten Mahavidyas. She is known as the "Ever-Awake Goddess" in Tantric scriptures. Worshipping her on Kaushiki Amavasya is considered supremely auspicious because the cosmic energy of the Divine Feminine is at its peak.
On this night:
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Obstacles are removed from life
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Protection from enemies and evil forces is granted
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Spiritual sadhanas progress faster
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Divine speech, wisdom, and expression are bestowed (especially beneficial for poets and singers)
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Blessings of progeny, wealth, and salvation are achieved
Sadhaks (spiritual practitioners) often perform secret Tantric rituals of Maa Tara during this night, as the energy of the goddess is highly awakened. The night is also called Gupta Amavasya, or the “secret new moon night,” ideal for hidden sadhanas and mantra siddhi.
Myths Associated with Maa Tara and Kaushiki Amavasya
1. Maa Tara Saves the Cosmos
As mentioned in Skanda Purana and Brahmanda Purana, during the churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan), when the deadly poison Halahala emerged, Lord Shiva drank it to protect the world. Though he survived, some poison spilled into the universe, causing chaos.
Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva then invoked Maa Tara for help. She appeared in a ferocious form, absorbed the poison, and restored balance in the cosmos. Since then, she has been revered as the Savior of the Universe.
2. Maa Tara Nurtures Shiva
Another myth from Tara Tantra and Tantric lore describes Lord Shiva falling unconscious after consuming poison. Maa Tara then cradled him and breastfed him, restoring his consciousness. This rare maternal form of the Goddess is deeply symbolic and spiritually profound, showing her nourishing and compassionate aspect.
This legend is the source of her epithet:
"Tara Tripura Bhairavi" – the Mother who sustains the three worlds.
Scriptural References (In Bullet Points for Blog Use):
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🔹 Brahmanda Purana – Describes the manifestation of Kaushiki Devi and her power
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🔹 Devi Bhagavatam (Skanda 11) – Details of Kaushiki Shakti and the significance of Tara Puja
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🔹 Tantra Chudamani – Reveals secret Tantric practices and the potency of Kaushiki Amavasya
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🔹 Yogini Tantra & Kalika Purana – Describe Maa Tara’s form, worship methods, and powers
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🔹 Markandeya Purana (Devi Mahatmya) – Contains the story of Kaushiki’s battle with demons
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🔹 Brihat Tantrasara – Discusses Tara sadhana and siddhi, especially effective on this Amavasya
How Is Maa Tara Worshipped on Kaushiki Amavasya?
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🌑 The puja is performed at night with establishment of Maa Tara's idol or image
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🌑 Offerings include sandalwood, flowers, incense, lamp, and specially prepared food
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🌑 Devotees chant the Tara Beej Mantra: “ॐ ह्रीं स्त्रीं हूं फट्”
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🌑 Tantrics and Sadhaks often worship her in secluded places or cremation grounds
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🌑 General devotees observe fast and chant her stotras or read scriptures
Conclusion
Kaushiki Amavasya is not just a lunar date but a portal of divine feminine energy, especially revered in Tantric tradition. Worshipping Maa Tara on this night grants spiritual power, protection, knowledge, and blessings for both material and mystical progress.
With strong foundations in scriptural references and mythological significance, the Kaushiki Amavasya and Maa Tara worship continue to hold great relevance in the spiritual journey of seekers even today.
🔔 Victory to Maa Tara
🔔 Glory to Kaushiki Shakti
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