Hindu Pitru Paksha: A 16 Day Ritual To Honor Ancestors

Pitru Paksha is a 16-day period in the Hindu calender dedicated to honoring ancestors. During this time, Hindus peform rituals such as Shraddha, Tarpan and Pind Daan to ensure peace for the departed souls. These rituals are believed to help the ancestors attain salvation and liberation from the cycle of rebirth.

Pitru Paksha, also known as Pitru Paksha or Shraddha, is a significant period in the Hindu Calendar dedicated to honoring and paying respects to one’s ancestors. This period is observed over 16 lunar days during the month of Ashwini, according to the Hindu calendar. In 2024, Pitru Paksha will begin on Tuesday, september 17, 2024 and end on Wednesday, October 2nd, 2024. The begining of the Purnima Tithi (Full Moon) marks the start of Pitru Paksha and the conclusion of the Amavasya Tithi (New Moon) significance the end of Pitru Paksha.

Significance of Pitru Paksha

During Pitru Paksha, Hindus perform Shraddha rituals to honor their ancestors. These rituals involve offering food, water and prayers to departed souls. It’s believed that these offerings help the ancestors find peace and liberation from early attachments. Traditionally, the eldest son or male members of the family perform these rituals.

Key Rituals During Pitru Paksha
  1. Tarpan: Offering water mixed with black sesame seeds to the ancestors.
  2. Pind Daan: Creating and offering rice balls (Pindas) mixed with sesame seeds and barley floor to the ancestors.
  3. Charitable Giving: Feeding Brahmins nad the needy is a common practice during Pitru Paksha, believed to benefit both the ancestors and the living.
pitru paksha
Mahalaya Amavasya

The final day of Pitru Paksha, Mahalaya Amavasya, is the most significant day for performing Shraddha rituals. Many people observe fasts and offers special prayers on this day. Pitru Paksha is a time of remembrance for ancestors. Families gather to honor their departed loved ones and seek their blessings. Hindus believe that by performing these rituals, they can bring peace to their ancestor’s souls and ensure their own well-being.

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