According to Hindu mythology, Chandra Dev is one of the most revered deities. He is also a significant part of the ‘Navgraha’ planets, which influences life on Earth. The Moon is generally considered a favourable planet. It is associated with wisdom, purity and good intentions. It is believed that an individual with a favourably placed Moon in his/her planet will live a more successful and prosperous life.
The Moon has more significance in Hinduism as it follows the lunar calendar. In Hindu mythology, Chandra Dev or the Moon God takes care of animal and plant life. He is married to the 27 Nakshatras, who are the daughters of King Prajapati Daksha and is also the father of Lord Budha. Hindu devotees pray to the Moon God on the day of Chandra Darshan to seek his blessings for success and good fortune.
Chandra Darshan falls on the first day when the moon rises after a new moon day. A new moon day is called as Amavasya. The first sighting of the moon after a new moon cycle has immense religious significance. Devotees tend to observe a fast throughout the day and break it after sighting the new moon on the auspicious day of Chandra Darshan.
One of the most important parts of this day is the worship of the forefathers, known as Pitra in Sanskrit. Many worship their ancestors to help them achieve Moksha (completing the circle of life and death) and also attain their wishes and blessings for a good fortune.