Pitru Paksha, Mahalaya Paksha Rules

Pitru Paksha, also known as Mahalaya Paksha or Shraadh, is a 16-day lunar period dedicated to paying homage to one’s ancestors and seeking their blessings. During this time, it is believed that the spirits of deceased ancestors visit the earthly realm, and rituals and offerings are performed to honor and appease them. The dates for Pitru Paksha in 2023 are from September 17th to September 30th.

Here are some important rules and guidelines to observe during Pitru Paksha:

1. Pitru Tarpan: The main ritual during Pitru Paksha is offering tarpan (oblations) to one’s ancestors. This involves offering water, sesame seeds, and other specified items while reciting prayers and the names of the deceased ancestors. This ritual is performed daily during this period.
2. Vegetarian Diet: It is customary to follow a strict vegetarian diet during Pitru Paksha. Consumption of non-vegetarian food, alcohol, and onion-garlic is generally avoided as it is believed to disturb the spirits of ancestors.
3. Cleanliness: Maintain personal cleanliness and hygiene during this period. Taking a bath before performing rituals is considered important.
4. Offerings: Along with water and sesame seeds, other items like rice, black sesame seeds, milk, ghee, sweets, and fruits are offered during the tarpan ritual. The specific offerings may vary by region and family tradition.
5. Offerings for Brahmins: Many people also make offerings to Brahmins or priests during Pitru Paksha as a way of seeking blessings for their ancestors.
6. Charity: Performing acts of charity, such as donating food, clothing, or money to the needy, is considered meritorious during this time. It is believed to earn blessings for the departed souls.
7. Avoid New Ventures: It is traditionally advised to avoid starting new ventures, important business deals, or major life events during Pitru Paksha. It is considered an inauspicious time for such activities.
8. Respect and Reverence: Treat the rituals and offerings with respect and reverence. This is a time to connect with one’s roots and show gratitude to ancestors.
9. Pind Daan: Some families perform Pind Daan, a ritual involving the offering of rice balls, to pay homage to deceased ancestors. This is typically done in pilgrimage places like Gaya, Varanasi, and Prayagraj.
10. Duration of Observance: While Pitru Paksha lasts for 16 days, the most important days for performing tarpan are believed to be the Mahalaya Amavasya (new moon day) and the following day, which marks the beginning of the Pitru Paksha period.
11. Shradh Dates: If you have specific dates for performing shradh (tarpan) based on your family’s lunar calendar or ancestral traditions, it’s important to follow those dates.
12. Cultural Variations: Pitru Paksha customs and rituals may vary among different regions and communities. It’s advisable to consult with a knowledgeable elder or priest to follow the specific practices of your tradition.

Observing Pitru Paksha with devotion and sincerity is a way to honor and remember one’s ancestors and seek their blessings for the well-being of the family.