Pitru Paksha

Pitru — Divine Ancestors

Hindu

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The ancestor-worship period from Purnima Shraddha through Sarvapitri Amavasya — each Shraddha corresponds to the ancestor's lunar death tithi and is observed with tarpan, pind daan, and charitable giving

Dates 2026–2027

September 26, 2026September 27, 2026September 28, 2026September 29, 2026September 30, 2026October 1, 2026October 2, 2026October 3, 2026October 4, 2026October 5, 2026October 6, 2026October 7, 2026October 8, 2026October 9, 2026October 10, 2026September 15, 2027September 16, 2027September 17, 2027September 18, 2027September 19, 2027September 20, 2027September 21, 2027September 22, 2027September 23, 2027September 24, 2027September 25, 2027September 26, 2027September 27, 2027September 28, 2027September 29, 2027

Mantra

ॐ पितृ देवाय नमः

Om Pitru Devaya Namaha — I bow to the divine ancestors, in gratitude and remembrance

✦ Special Note

Pitru Paksha begins with Purnima Shraddha on Bhadrapada Purnima; Pratipada Shraddha follows the next day. It is a time of solemn remembrance, not celebration. Avoid buying new things, starting new ventures, or holding auspicious ceremonies. Wake early, bathe, offer water (tarpan) facing south with sesame seeds and barley, and feed crows — who are considered symbolic messengers to the ancestors. Donate food to Brahmins or those in need. Dates per Drik Panchang (drikpanchang.com, New Delhi Pitru Paksha Shraddha list — Purnima Shraddha through Sarvapitri Amavasya).

Foods Allowed

Simple satvik vegetarian food onlyRice and dal (plain)Sesame seeds (til) — especially in tarpan offeringBarley (jau) — offered with waterFruits of all kindsBanana chips (made with sendha namak and ghee/coconut oil)All fresh fruits — including banana, apple, mango, papaya, pomegranate, grapes, pear, chikoo, guava, watermelon, orange, and seasonal fruitsMilk and dairyCoconut

Foods to Avoid

Non-vegetarian food of any kindOnion and garlic — many families avoid for all 16 daysAlcoholHeavily spiced or fried foodStarting new ventures or auspicious eventsPurchasing new items or valuables

Meal Idea

Plain rice with dal and sesame seeds — simple, satvik, and offered first to crows before eating

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