New Delhi: In the rich spiritual fabric of Hinduism, Pitru Paksha, also known as Shraddha Paksha, is a sacred 15-day period dedicated to remembering and honouring one’s ancestors. This annual observance holds immense religious and emotional significance, with millions across India performing rituals to express gratitude and seek blessings from departed souls. From tarpan to pind daan, the period is believed to offer peace to ancestral spirits and remove obstacles linked to Pitru Dosha.
As per the Hindu Panchang, Pitru Paksha 2025 will begin on Sunday, 7 September, and conclude on Saturday, 21 September, marked by Sarv Pitru Amavasya. The period begins late night on 7 September at 1:41 AM and ends the same day at 11:38 PM, marking the onset of rituals across the country. This fortnight is considered highly auspicious for those wanting to restore harmony in their lives through ancestral reverence.
Pitru Paksha is deeply rooted in the belief that ancestors visit their descendants during this time. Performing rituals like tarpan (offering water), shraddha (ancestral rites) and pind daan (rice ball offerings) helps bring peace to their souls. According to scriptures, a pleased ancestor blesses the household with prosperity, peace, and protection from adversity.
Conversely, neglecting these duties is said to invite Pitru Dosha, which can manifest as setbacks in career, health, finances, or family life. This is why families across India, especially in states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu, observe this period with full devotion and traditional customs.
Those whose parents have passed away should offer tarpan facing the south, using a mixture of water, black sesame seeds, and milk. However, those whose parents are still alive must not perform tarpan; instead, they should offer sun water (Surya Arghya) while praying to ancestors and family deities every morning.
As per scriptures, the first roti or portion of food each day should go to Gau Mata (cow). This act is said to invoke the blessings of ancestors and the divine. Feeding a cow during Pitru Paksha is equivalent to offering food to one’s ancestors directly.
Light a diya (lamp) every morning and evening facing the south direction. It is believed that ancestors visit from this direction during Pitru Paksha. On the day of shraddha, rituals should be performed while sitting facing south, and ancestors should be invited with respect before starting the offerings.
In today’s fast-paced world, Pitru Paksha reminds us of our roots, lineage, and the unseen blessings of our ancestors. Whether you choose to perform a simple water offering or go all out with traditional shraddha, this is a time to pause, remember, and reconnect spiritually.
(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and religious texts. News9 Live does not endorse or validate these claims.)
