In a period dedicated to paternal ancestors, special ceremonies known as Pitru Paksha are conducted. During this time, homage is paid to the souls of ancestors. Pitru Paksha, according to the Hindu calendar, commences on the full moon day of the Bhadrapad month and concludes on the new moon day of the Krishna Paksha of Ashwin month.
Significance of Pitru Paksha in Hinduism
In Hinduism, Pitru Paksha holds significant importance. Astrologer Dr. Anish Vyas explained that Pitru Paksha begins this year on September 29, 2023, and concludes on October 14.
The Importance of Shraaddha during Pitru Paksha
During Pitru Paksha, ancestors are remembered with reverence, and rituals are performed in their memory. Offering Tarpan (offering of water) and performing Shraaddha ceremonies during this time not only ensures the liberation of ancestors’ souls but also signifies respect and honor towards them. It is a tradition to light a lamp in the name of the ancestors, offering them food, and seeking their blessings. According to Dr. Vyas, Shraaddha means pleasing one’s ancestors with genuine reverence.
Pitru Paksha 2023 Start and End Dates
According to the Hindu Panchang, Pitru Paksha will begin on September 29 this year and conclude on the Amavasya (new moon day) of the Krishna Paksha of Ashwin month. The Amavasya falls on October 14 this year. This period is often known as Sarv Pitru Amavasya. Due to an additional lunar month this year, the auspicious ceremonies might be delayed by 12 to 15 days. Generally, Pitru Paksha concludes in September, but this year, it will start towards the end of September and extend till mid-October.
Taboos and Rituals during Pitru Paksha
During these 15 days, special meals are prepared daily for the ancestors. Additionally, Brahmins are invited for meals in memory of the departed souls. Certain activities like marriages, ear-piercing ceremonies, Mundan (head-shaving ceremony), and other significant events are avoided during Pitru Paksha. People refrain from buying or wearing new clothes during this period as a mark of respect for their ancestors. Apart from Tarpan and Havan (ritual offerings to the fire), people also perform Pind Daan, a ritual where food offerings are made to the ancestors’ souls.
Shraaddha Dates
| Date | Shraaddha Occasion |
|---|---|
| September 29 | Full Moon Shraaddha |
| September 30 | Pratipada Shraaddha, Dwitiya Shraaddha |
| October 1 | Tritiya Shraaddha |
| October 2 | Chaturthi Shraaddha |
| October 3 | Panchami Shraaddha |
| October 4 | Shashthi Shraaddha |
| October 5 | Saptami Shraaddha |
| October 6 | Ashtami Shraaddha |
| October 7 | Navami Shraaddha |
| October 8 | Dashami Shraaddha |
| October 9 | Ekadashi Shraaddha |
| October 11 | Dwadashi Shraaddha |
| October 12 | Trayodashi Shraaddha |
| October 13 | Chaturdashi Shraaddha |
| October 14 | Sarv Pitru Amavasya |
These dates are significant for performing Shraaddha rituals in honor of ancestors during the Pitru Paksha period
The tradition of Shraaddha.
The tradition of Shraaddha has ancient roots in Hindu culture and has been practiced for thousands of years. Its origins can be traced back to ancient texts like the Vedas, which are among the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism.
- Vedic Roots: In the Rigveda, one of the oldest Vedic texts, there are references to rituals performed for the deceased ancestors. These rituals were believed to ensure the well-being of both the living and the dead. The ceremonies involved offering food and water to departed souls.
- Smritis and Dharmashastras: The concept of Shraaddha became more structured and elaborate in the later Hindu texts known as Smritis and Dharmashastras. These texts provided detailed guidelines about the rituals, emphasizing the importance of performing Shraaddha with devotion and sincerity. Manusmriti, one of the well-known Dharmashastras, contains guidelines for ancestral rites.
- Pitru Paksha: The 16-day period of Pitru Paksha, during which Shraaddha is performed, is mentioned in various ancient texts. It is believed that Lord Krishna himself advised Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Pandavas, about the significance of performing Shraaddha during this period to honor one’s ancestors.
- Religious Texts: Hindu epics like the Mahabharata and the Puranas contain stories emphasizing the importance of honoring ancestors. The Bhagavad Gita, a significant Hindu scripture, also mentions the importance of offerings made to ancestors.
- Cultural Significance: Over time, the practice of Shraaddha became deeply embedded in Hindu culture. It is not just a religious ritual but also a way of connecting with one’s roots, understanding the importance of the family lineage, and expressing gratitude towards one’s ancestors.
While the specifics of Shraaddha rituals can vary across regions and communities, the fundamental concept of honoring departed souls and seeking their blessings and peace has remained a central theme throughout its history.
