Pitru Paksh begins September 26, formal observance kicks off September 27

Pitru Paksh, the Hindu lunar fortnight dedicated to honouring deceased ancestors, will commence on September 26 and continue through October 10 this year. The period holds significant spiritual importance in the Hindu tradition, with families performing Shradh rituals to pay respects to their forebears.

The observance begins with Bhádra Purnima Shradh on September 26, when rituals are performed for ancestors who died on the full moon date. This preliminary day precedes the formal inauguration of the Pitru Paksh period. Individuals whose ancestors passed away on the Purnima tithi, or lunar date, are expected to conduct their Shradh ceremonies on this day.

The official commencement of Pitru Paksh is marked on September 27, coinciding with the Pratipada tithi, or first lunar day. From this date onward, families undertake the traditional Shradh rituals in accordance with the lunar calendar. The fortnight sees Hindu communities across India observing dietary restrictions, performing ancestral rites, and engaging in charitable activities believed to benefit the deceased.

During this period, it is customary for individuals to offer food and water in memory of their ancestors and seek their blessings. The dates of individual Shradh ceremonies vary based on the lunar dates corresponding to each family member's death anniversary. The concluding day, Mahalaya Amavasya on October 10, is considered particularly auspicious for these observances.