Dates and Auspicious Time to Begin Sharadiya Navratri 2026: Information on Kalash Sthapana

In Hinduism, Pitru Paksha is considered a special period for honoring ancestors and expressing reverence towards them. During this time, various rites such as Shraddha, Tarpan, and Pindadaan are performed for deceased family members. There is a belief that remembering ancestors and performing religious acts for their spiritual peace holds particular significance during these days.

Pitru Paksha 2026

In 2026, Pitru Paksha will begin on September 27th and conclude on October 10th, which is Sarvapitri Amavasya. Additionally, a Pournima Shraddha will be performed on September 26th.

When does Pitru Paksha start?

Pitru Paksha in 2026 starts on September 27th. During this period, ancestor remembrance is conducted according to different dates. Traditionally, Shraddha is performed on the day of a person's death. However, it should be noted that differences may exist across various regions and families based on Panchanga calculations.

The last day of Pitru Paksha will be October 10th, when Sarvapitri Amavasya is observed. This day is also important for ancestors whose dates of death are unknown.

Main Dates of Pitru Paksha in 2026

The main dates include: Pournima Shraddha — September 26th; Pratipada Shraddha — September 27th; Dwitiya Shraddha — September 28th; Tritiya Shraddha — September 29th; Chaturthi Shraddha — September 30th; Panchami Shraddha — October 1st; Shashthi Shraddha — October 2nd; Saptami Shraddha — October 3rd; Ashtami Shraddha — October 3rd; Navami Shraddha — October 4th; Dashami Shraddha — October 5th; Ekadashi Shraddha — October 6th; Dwadashi Shraddha — October 7th; Trayodashi Shraddha — October 8th; Chaturdashi Shraddha — October 9th; and Sarvapitri Amavasya — October 10th.

It is important to remember that Shraddha dates depend on lunar calendars and local Panchanga calculations, so when determining the time for a specific ritual, one should refer to the local Panchanga or family traditions.

What is Shraddha?

Shraddha is related to expressing respect and reverence for ancestors. During Pitru Paksha, family members perform Shraddha rituals according to the date of death of their deceased relatives. These rites involve worship, offering food, and charity, and their performance may vary depending on family and regional traditions.

How is Tarpan performed?

Tarpan also holds great significance during Pitru Paksha. In this ritual, water is offered to the ancestors. According to many traditions, water in a copper vessel, black seeds, milk, and Ganga water are used for Tarpan. Kusha is also considered a sacred plant. Traditionally, when performing Tarpan, one should face south, as the southern direction is associated with the Pitras in Hindu beliefs.

What is the significance of Pindadaan?

Pindadaan is an important part of pitra rituals. During this, pindas are offered to the ancestors. The method of making and offering pindas can vary depending on different religious traditions and family customs. Some families also perform Pindadaan at pilgrimage sites during Pitru Paksha, following methods indicated by local traditions and the priest.

What is included in the food during Shraddha?

Many families have a tradition of preparing sattvic food on Shraddha days. The composition of the dishes may differ depending on the region and family customs. According to several traditions, a portion of the food during Shraddha is given to animals such as cows, dogs, and crows, which is considered part of the religious practice.

What is avoided during Pitru Paksha?

Pitru Paksha is generally viewed as a time for ancestor remembrance and performing religious rites. Therefore, many families try to avoid holding large and auspicious events during this period. Traditionally, auspicious events such as weddings, as well as starting new businesses or important endeavors, are refrained from during these days. It is also recommended to refrain from moving into a new house or purchasing expensive or luxurious items, as well as holding large festivals or celebrations. Nevertheless, adherence to these rules is not universal for all families, as religious traditions can change depending on the region, community, and family customs.

Furthermore, there is a tradition during Pitru Paksha of donating and helping the needy. Many people donate food, clothing, footwear, til, and other necessary items during this period. Charity is seen as a way to express reverence for ancestors and help those in need.

It is important to remember that the methods of performing Shraddha and Tarpan are not uniform everywhere. The correct determination of the date and method of Shraddha should be based on the traditions of one's family and the local Panchanga.

Pitru Paksha, also known as Shraddha Paksha, is approaching. According to beliefs, performing the proper Shraddha ritual during this period brings peace to the souls of ancestors. Currently, there is some confusion among people regarding the start dates of Pitru Paksha, as some sources indicate September 26th, while others state September 27th.

According to astrologer Pravin Mishra, Pitru Paksha in 2026 will run from September 26th to October 10th. On September 26th, Shraddha will be performed on the full moon day of the Bhadrapada month, which applies to those whose ancestors passed away on that day. Following this, September 27th is considered the official start of Pitru Paksha, as it will be the first date of the Ashvina lunar month in the waning phase of the Moon.

The conclusion of Pitru Paksha will take place on October 10th, on the day of Sarvapitri Amavasya. On this day, the Shraddha ritual is permitted for all ancestors whose date of death is unknown. Traditionally, it is believed that if the exact date of death or Shraddha of an ancestor is forgotten, they should be honored on the day of Sarvapitri Amavasya.

During Pitru Paksha, it is customary to respectfully remember ancestors. During this period, Shraddha, Tarpan, Pindadaan rituals are conducted, and food donations are made. If for any reason it is impossible to perform the ritual according to tradition, it is recommended to donate food or products to those in need according to one's means. Items that can be donated include rice, lentils, flour, salt, fruits, vegetables, ghee, maple syrup, and clothing.

During Pitru Paksha, it is advised to refrain from holding auspicious events such as weddings, engagements, housewarmings, or starting a new business. There is also a tradition of refraining from purchasing new real estate and vehicles. Many people also prefer not to buy new clothes during this period. It should be noted that all these recommendations are related to religious beliefs and traditions.

According to the calendar, Shraddha on the full moon day falls on September 26, 2026 (Saturday). Shraddha on the first date of the lunar month will take place on September 27, 2026 (Sunday). Subsequently, dates for Shraddha on the second, third, fourth, and fifth dates are from September 28 to September 30, 2026. The sixth day of Shraddha is scheduled for October 1, 2026 (Thursday), and the seventh for October 2, 2026 (Friday).

The dates for the eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh, and twelfth days of Shraddha are October 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7, respectively. It is also noted that Shraddha for the Magha date will take place on October 7, 2026 (Wednesday). The dates for the thirteenth and fourteenth days of Shraddha are October 8 and 9, 2026. The Sarvapitri Amavasya period concludes on October 10, 2026 (Saturday).