The fortnight of Pitru Paksha 2025 will be observed from September 7th to September 21st. During this period, devotees perform Shraddha, Tarpan, and Pindadan for their deceased ancestors. According to religious belief, these rituals bring satisfaction to the ancestors and blessings to the lineage. It is essential to follow the correct methods and rules, otherwise, the benefits of Shraddha may remain incomplete.
Pitru Paksha 2025: Keep these 10 important rules in mind: Pitru Paksha 2025 will commence on September 7th and conclude on September 21st. This period is considered significant in Hinduism for the peace and blessings of the souls of departed ancestors. During this time, devotees perform religious rites such as Shraddha, Tarpan, and Pindadan for their deceased ancestors. Adhering to the correct time, place, and method leads to the satisfaction of ancestors, ensuring peace and blessings for the lineage. Neglecting the rules during Pitru Paksha carries the risk of Pitru Dosha and incomplete fulfillment of the ritual's benefits.
10 Important Rules for Shraddha
- Perform Shraddha in the afternoon – Shraddha for ancestors should be performed in the afternoon, as during this time, the Pitru Dev (ancestral deities) are considered the presiding deities.
- Face the South direction – When performing Shraddha, sit facing the South direction, as this is considered the direction of Pitru Loka (the realm of ancestors).
- Do not perform rituals at sunset – Performing rituals related to Pitru Paksha at sunset results in incomplete benefits from Shraddha.
- Perform Shraddha on your own land or a sacred site – Shraddha should always be performed on one's own land or at a pilgrimage site, a holy river, or a temple.
- Invite Brahmins – For the Shraddha meal, serve sattvic food to at least three Brahmins.
- Importance of charity and Dakshina – After the meal, donate food or clothing to Brahmins and the poor; Shraddha is considered incomplete without charity and Dakshina.
- Maintain purity and peace at home – Ancestors are not satisfied by anger, discord, or arguments.
- Set aside a portion of the food for animals – Keep a separate portion of food for cows, dogs, ants, and crows, as they are considered mediums to convey offerings to the ancestors.
- Kusha grass and sesame seeds are essential – Use Kusha grass and sesame seeds in Shraddha rituals; Shraddha is considered incomplete without them.
- Maintain restraint and purity – Avoid cutting nails, hair, and beard on the day of Shraddha, and perform the rituals with devotion and restraint.
