Pitru Paksha is considered one of the most sacred periods in Hinduism, dedicated to remembering and honouring ancestors. During this time, devotees perform rituals such as Shradh, Tarpan, and Daan to seek peace for their forebears’ souls. It is believed that every sincere act performed during Pitru Paksha directly reaches the ancestors, and their blessings help ease life’s challenges. The 16-day period of Pitru Paksha began on September 7 and will conclude on September 21. According to Bhopal-based astrologer and Vastu consultant Pandit Hitendra Kumar Sharma, performing specific rituals during this period brings prosperity, peace, and happiness to the family. (News18 Hindi)
Tarpan and Pinddaan: Shradh is regarded as the most important ritual of Pitru Paksha. It involves performing tarpan and pinddaan for ancestors. Pinddaan, when done with devotion, is believed to bring happiness to ancestors, who in turn protect the family. Through tarpan, water and food are offered to ancestors, providing peace to their souls. (News18 Hindi)
Donating: Donations hold special significance during Pitru Paksha. Giving food, clothes, or other essentials to the needy is considered highly auspicious. Such acts are believed to please both the ancestors and God, enhancing blessings and prosperity in life. (News18 Hindi)
Fasting: Observing a fast on Shradh Tithi is another way to honour ancestors. Fasting not only purifies the devotee’s soul but also brings positive energy to the mind. With this, ancestors are believed to remove sorrows and obstacles from the family’s life. (News18 Hindi)
Panchbali Karma: Panchbali involves offering food to five creatures, the cow, dog, crow, ant, and fish. This act is considered auspicious, as the food offered is believed to reach the ancestors. Panchbali is said to maintain peace, happiness, and prosperity in the household. (News18 Hindi)
Lighting a Lamp: Lighting a lamp in the south direction of the house is considered highly beneficial during Pitru Paksha, as the south is traditionally associated with ancestors. A four-faced lamp may also be lit for added effect. Lighting a lamp beneath a Peepal tree, regarded as sacred, is believed to bring auspicious results. These acts are thought to please ancestors, who bless the family with progress, peace, and prosperity. (News18 Hindi)
