The sacred period of Pitru Paksha 2025 begins on 7 September with Bhadrapada Purnima. This fortnight is considered one of the most important times in Hindu tradition, dedicated to honoring ancestors through Shraddh rituals and Tarpan.

Hindus believe that paying respects to their forefathers during this period brings blessings and removes obstacles from life. This time is also known as Mahalaya Paksha and is followed with strict rules of purity and discipline.

The first step before performing Shraddh is to identify the correct tithi, as rituals should be performed on the specific lunar day connected with the departed soul.

Importance of Sarva Pitru Amavasya

If a person is unsure of the exact tithi of their ancestors, they can perform Shraddh on Sarva Pitru Amavasya, also called Mahalaya Amavasya.

In 2025, Sarva Pitru Amavasya falls on 21 September. Although a solar eclipse also occurs that day, it has no effect on Shraddh rituals in India. Therefore, the day remains significant for offering prayers and food to ancestors.

Rules for Performing Shraddh with Purity

Purity is the most essential aspect of Shraddh. On the day of Shraddh, one should wake up early, take a ritual bath, and wear clean clothes. The environment must be peaceful and free from disturbances.

Food prepared for Shraddh should always be sattvic. Dishes such as kheer and puri are common, along with simple vegetable curries that exclude garlic and onion. The preparation of food must be done with devotion, ensuring cleanliness and sanctity.

When setting up the ritual area, choose a clean spot facing the south direction, as it is traditionally associated with ancestors.

Performing Tarpan During Pitru Paksha

The act of Tarpan is central to Pitru Paksha rituals. It is done using water, black sesame seeds, and kusha grass.

The devotee first takes a vow, mentioning their name, gotra, and the names of their ancestors. Water mixed with sesame seeds is then offered to the Sun while reciting prayers for the ancestors.

A lamp is lit in memory of the ancestors, and offerings are made with sincerity. Some food is set aside for crows, cows, ants, and even dogs, symbolizing the feeding of ancestral souls. Sacred offerings are also placed in the fire.

After this, Brahmins are served food with respect, along with donations of cloth and money. If Brahmins are not available, offerings can be given to needy people, ensuring that the intention of feeding and charity is fulfilled.

Mantras and Their Significance

During Pitru Paksha, chanting mantras strengthens the ritual. One commonly recited verse is:

Pitru Tarpanam Yajna Ratnam Punya Karmanam Shashvatam, Yah Kuryat Pitru Bhaktya Sa Tam Mrityu Bhayam Na Hanyat.

The meaning of this mantra is that a person who performs Tarpan with devotion to ancestors is protected from untimely death and misfortune.

Shraddh for NRIs and People Living Abroad

Many Hindus living abroad wonder how to perform Shraddh when they cannot travel to India. The rituals can still be performed with sincerity, even outside India.

The essential steps are the same: maintain purity, perform a ritual bath, prepare sattvic food, and use available substitutes for traditional items. If kusha grass is not available, clean natural substitutes may be used.

The focus should remain on devotion and respect rather than geographical location. Families abroad can also donate food or essentials to the needy in their communities.

Food Rules During Pitru Paksha

Certain food restrictions must be observed during Pitru Paksha. Devotees should avoid foods considered impure or unsuitable for Shraddh.

Items such as white sesame, bottle gourd, radish, garlic, stale food, mustard greens, masoor dal, black salt, and sattu should not be consumed.

During Shraddh, only black sesame seeds are used in rituals. Food prepared for ancestors should never be tasted before the rituals are complete. The person preparing the meal should also not eat before the Shraddh ceremony ends.

Symbolism of Feeding Animals and Birds

An important part of Pitru Paksha rituals is feeding crows, cows, and dogs. In Hindu belief, crows are seen as messengers of ancestors. Offering food to them ensures that the offerings reach the departed souls.

Feeding ants, cows, and stray animals also symbolizes extending blessings to all living beings. This act is seen as fulfilling the duty of a householder towards both ancestors and the environment.

Cultural and Spiritual Importance of Pitru Paksha

Pitru Paksha is more than a ritual; it is a reminder of the bond between generations. Hindus believe that ancestors bless their descendants when remembered with love and devotion.

It is said that neglecting these rituals can bring obstacles in life, while sincere observance brings prosperity, peace, and progress. Many families also take this time to reflect on their lineage and pass on traditions to the younger generation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Pitru Paksha

Devotees should remain careful to avoid certain mistakes during Shraddh. Performing rituals with impure intentions, consuming prohibited foods, or neglecting charity is considered disrespectful.

Another common mistake is treating Shraddh as a mere formality. Instead, it must be performed with heartfelt devotion and understanding of its significance.

Also, wasting food prepared for Shraddh is discouraged. Any extra food should be distributed among needy people, animals, or birds.

Pitru Paksha in Modern Context

With many people living abroad or leading urban lifestyles, performing traditional rituals exactly as prescribed can be difficult. However, the essence of Pitru Paksha lies not in rigid customs but in devotion and remembrance.

Even small acts, such as offering prayers, donating food, or reciting mantras, can fulfill the spiritual intent of honoring ancestors. Technology has also made it easier, with many families arranging for Shraddh rituals to be performed in India on their behalf.

Pitru Paksha 2025 begins on 7 September and will end on 21 September with Sarva Pitru Amavasya. The fortnight is dedicated to paying homage to ancestors through Shraddh and Tarpan.

Whether in India or abroad, devotees can perform these rituals by maintaining purity, preparing sattvic meals, offering water and sesame seeds, and donating to Brahmins or the needy.

The rules of Pitru Paksha emphasize simplicity, devotion, and charity. Avoiding prohibited foods, not tasting food before rituals, and feeding animals are key aspects of the observance.

By performing these rituals with sincerity, devotees believe they free their ancestors from unfulfilled desires and receive blessings for health, prosperity, and peace.