Observed by Meher Baba followers Date January 31 | Type Traditional | |
Significance Commemoration of the Death Anniversary of Meher Baba Celebrations Meher Baba's Tomb pilgrimage, song and dance, theatre, symbolic decoration, feasting etc. Observances Meher Baba's flag is flown over Meherabad, lighting of Dhuni, and 15 minutes silence in honor of the physical passing of Meher Baba at 12:15 p.m. on 31 January 1969. | ||
Amartithi is the day which commemorates Meher Baba's death on 31 January 1969. The word "Amartithi" appears to have been coined by Meher Baba and means "deathless day" (Literally, amar, deathless; tithi, day, in Hindi). Also translated as "eternal date" or "date with the Eternal." It is considered one of the most significant holidays among followers of Meher Baba in addition to "Silence Day", and Meher Baba's birthday.
The Event
The town of Meherabad hosts 10,000 – 12,000 overnight visitors, and 25,000 – 30,000 daytime visitors, from all over the world during a three-day program in celebration of Amartithi. Many of Meher Baba's followers celebrate Amartithi outside of India, mainly in Australia, Europe, and the United States. At Meherabad the climax of the event takes place on Amartithi day itself when the assembled crowd keeps silence for fifteen minutes in honor of the physical passing of Meher Baba at 12:15 p.m. on 31 January 1969.