Pitri Paksha 2026: Pratipada Tithi Shraddha Observances Begin

The Pratipada tithi shraddha ceremony will be performed on September 27, 2026, as part of the annual Pitri Paksha observance. During this 16-day period dedicated to honouring ancestors, Hindu families conduct shraddha rituals according to the lunar calendar, performing ceremonies on the specific tithi or lunar date on which their ancestors passed away.

The tradition of tithi-based shraddha is a fundamental aspect of Hindu funeral rites and ancestral worship. According to this practice, the death anniversary shraddha of a deceased family member is observed on the same lunar tithi in which they died, rather than on a fixed Gregorian calendar date. This ensures that the ritual maintains its spiritual alignment with the celestial patterns believed to govern ancestral connections.

Shraddha ceremonies typically include pindadan, the offering of rice balls, and tarpan, the ritual pouring of water mixed with sesame seeds and other sacred substances. These offerings are believed to provide sustenance to the departed souls and express gratitude for their blessings during their lifetime.

Pitri Paksha, which follows the new moon day of Bhadrapada month, is considered an especially auspicious period for performing these ancestral rites. Families are advised to consult detailed panchang calendars and local religious authorities to determine the precise muhurat, or auspicious timing, for their specific shraddha observances during this period.