Note: 26 September is Purnima Tithi, and some families observe Pitru Paksha starting that day instead, since Purnima lasts only until 10:18 PM before Pratipada begins. Follow whichever your family tradition uses.

Tithis can shift slightly depending on the lunar calendar — confirm the exact Shraddh Muhurat for your region with a local Panchang or purohit.

Significance of Pitru Paksha

Pitru Paksha is set aside to remember our ancestors and show them gratitude. In Hindu tradition, ancestors remain a vital part of the family, and are offered respect, water and food through Tarpan and Shraddh — done with faith rather than obligation.

These rituals are believed to bring peace to the ancestors, invite their blessings on the family, and address any Pitru Dosh in a person's Kundli. Daan, or charity, is central to the fortnight too — food, clothes, grains or other items are given to those in need, to Brahmins, cows and birds, in the ancestors' memory.

Shraddh, Tarpan and Pind Daan — What's the Difference?

These three terms are often used together, but each means something specific.

How Shraddh Is Performed

The exact method varies by family and region — if you're unfamiliar with it, following your own family's tradition, or asking a purohit, is always the safer path. In general, the ritual runs through these steps.

1. Bathe and dress simply

   Begin after a holy bath, wearing clean, preferably white or light-coloured clothing.

2. Take the sankalp

   Declare the intention to perform the ritual for the departed ancestor, naming them and your relationship, as per family tradition.

3. Perform Tarpan

   Offer water with prayers and mantras — often done three times, representing Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, or as a symbolic offering to the ancestors directly.

4. Offer the Pind Daan

   Prepare the pind from flour, rice and specific ingredients and offer it — exact method and ingredients vary by community.

5. Make food offerings

   Prepare a vegetarian meal, symbolically offer a portion to the ancestors, then share the rest with the family.

6. Give Daan

   Offer food, clothes, or essentials to Brahmins, those in need, or animals, in the ancestors' memory.

Dos and Don'ts During Pitru Paksha

Practices vary by community, but these are generally observed through the fortnight.

Dos

• Perform Shraddh on the correct Tithi for your forefather
• Offer water for Tarpan as per family custom
• Perform Pind Daan when prescribed
• Offer food in remembrance of ancestors
• Give away food, clothes, grains or other useful items
• Feed the hungry and animals where appropriate
• Take time to recall and give thanks to loved ones who have passed
• Keep purity and integrity through the observance
• Follow your own family and community customs

Don'ts

• Avoid unnecessary celebrations or extravagant functions during this period.
• Don't handle weapons disrespectfully during ancestral rites.
• Avoid alcohol and non-vegetarian food if your family tradition abstains during this period.
• Avoid arguments, anger and unnecessary conflict.
• Don't attempt an ancestral ritual step-by-step if you're unfamiliar with it — ask a purohit or elder instead.
• Don't perform Shraddh mechanically; it should be done with genuine devotion.
• Follow your own family and community traditions rather than arbitrary rules found online.

Frequently Asked Questions