Pitru Paksha 2024: Why Should Follow These Rituals?

Pitru Paksha, also known as Shradha, spans from September 17 to October 2 in 2024. This significant 16-day period, beginning on the Pratipada Tithi of Krishna Paksha in Bhadrapada, culminates in Mahalaya Amavasya, a day dedicated to honuoring ancestors. Hindus worldwide embrace this time to pay homage to their forebears, seeking both peace for their souls and blessings for their families.

During Pitru Paksha, it is believed that the spirits of ancestors descend to Earth, making it an opportune time for families to perform rituals that ensure their peace. The principal ritual, Shraddha, involves offering prayers and food to departed loved ones. Additionally, many individuals participate in the Pitru Dosha Puja, aimed at alleviating any ancestral curses affecting their lives. Know about what people should observe and avoid during Pitru Paksha.

What should you observe during Pitru Paksha? 

Perform Shraddha on the Correct Day: Ensure that the rituals align with the specific tithi that corresponds to your ancestors’ death anniversaries.

Offer Pind Daan: This involves preparing rice balls mixed with sesame seeds and water, believed to nourish the souls of ancestors in the afterlife.

Engage in spiritual practices: Reading holy texts, chanting mantras, and attending spiritual gatherings (satsangs) help create a respectful environment for honoring ancestors.

Practice charity: Donations of food, clothes, or money to those in need are vital during this period, believed to bestow merit upon the family and tranquility upon the departed.

Maintain purity: Following a simple vegetarian diet and abstaining from alcohol is encouraged, as purity of thought and action is crucial during Pitru Paksha.

Feed the needy: Hosting a meal for Brahmins or the underprivileged, known as "Brahma Bhojan," is a significant aspect of Shraddha rituals.

Remember your ancestors: Take moments to reflect on and express gratitude for your loved ones who have passed.

Don’ts for Pitru Paksha

Avoid celebrations: This period is marked by solemnity, so refraining from celebrations, purchasing new items, or starting new ventures is advised.
Refrain from Non-Vegetarian Foods: Eating meat, garlic, and onions is discouraged as it is believed to disrupt the sanctity of rituals.

Limit travel: Staying close to home is preferred to focus on performing ancestral rituals.

Don't cut hair or nails: This practice is seen as disrespectful during Pitru Paksha.

Avoid negative behaviour: Emotions such as anger or argumentation should be minimized to maintain the spiritual integrity needed for effective rituals.

Pitru Paskha rituals

Engaging in rituals like Tarpan, which involves offering water mixed with black sesame seeds, and Pinda Daan, supports the souls of the ancestors.

Elaborate Shraddha ceremonies can also include providing food and necessities to Brahmins in remembrance of the departed. Acts of charity during this time not only benefit the living but also invoke blessings for the deceased.