The period of Pitru Paksha is approaching, which is an important time in Hinduism for honoring ancestors and expressing reverence towards them. This period is also known as Shraddha Paksha. According to the Hindu Panchang, the start of Pitru Paksha this year is scheduled for September 26th. During this sacred time, Shraddha, Tarpan, and offering rituals are performed in memory of deceased ancestors.
The Pitru Paksha period concludes on Sarvapitri Amavasya. During this time, families remember their departed relatives and perform religious rites for their spiritual peace, including Tarpan and Pindadana.
According to the Hindu Panchang, Pitru Paksha will begin on September 26, 2026, and end on October 10, Sarvapitri Amavasya. On this day, Shraddha is observed on Pournima Tithi. After this day, Shraddha rituals will be conducted according to various dates. There are different Shraddha dates during Pitru Paksha, starting from Pratipada and ending with Amavasya. Tradition states that Shraddha is performed on the death anniversary of a specific ancestor.
The dates include: September 26 — Shraddha on Pournima; September 27 — Shraddha on Pratipada; September 28 — Shraddha on Dwitiya; September 29 — Shraddha on Tritiya; September 30 — Shraddha on Chaturthi; October 1 — Shraddha on Shashti; October 2 — Shraddha on Saptami; October 3 — Shraddha on Ashtami; October 4 — Shraddha on Navami; October 5 — Shraddha on Dashami; October 6 — Shraddha on Ekadashi; October 7 — Shraddha on Dwadashi; October 8 — Shraddha on Trayodashi; October 9 — Shraddha on Chaturdashi; and October 10 — Sarvapitri Amavasya.
The ritual of Tarpan holds great significance during Pitru Paksha. Devotees remember their ancestors by mixing black sesame seeds, Kusha grass, and pure water. Water is then offered to them. During this period, a 'pind' is prepared—a ball made of cooked rice, barley flour, black sesame seeds, milk, ghee, and honey—and it is offered to the ancestors. It is also considered auspicious to feed the needy and engage in charity during Pitru Paksha. To earn the grace of ancestors, especially on Sarvapitri Amavasya, it is recommended to prepare favorite food for the ancestors and distribute it to the poor.