Pitru Paksha (Shradh)
What is the Meaning of Pitru Paksha/Shradh?
Pitru Paksha, also known as Shradh Paksha or Kanagat, is a 16-day lunar period dedicated to paying homage to one’s ancestors (Pitrs). It is believed that during this time, the souls of ancestors visit the Earth to bless their descendants. Performing Shradh rituals with devotion is said to bring peace to departed souls and attract blessings of prosperity, good health, and happiness for the family.
Pitru Paksha 2025 Start Date and Time
Start Date: 7 September 2025
End Date: 21 September 2025
Pitru Paksha 2025 Tithiya and Muhurat
Pitru Paksha includes 16 tithis, each dedicated to specific ancestors depending on their lunar death date. Some important tithis include:
Purnima Shradh – For those who passed away on Purnima
Pratipada Shradh – For those who passed away on Pratipada
Sarva Pitru Amavasya (Mahalaya Amavasya) – For all ancestors whose tithi is unknown
What to Do in Pitru Paksha?
The activities to perform in Pitru Paksha are –
Perform Tarpan and Pind Daan rituals.
Offer water, sesame seeds, and food to ancestors with devotion.
Feed Brahmins, cows, and the needy.
Chant Pitru Sukta and Pitru Chalisa to seek blessings.
Donate clothes, food, and other essentials.
Things to Remember in Pitru Paksh
Things to remember during Pitru Paksha are –
Avoid starting new ventures, buying property, or hosting celebrations.
Maintain sattvic (pure vegetarian) diet and lifestyle.
Refrain from cutting nails and hair on Shradh days.
Respect and take care of elders in the family.
Pitru Paksha or Shradh Vidhi
The Shradh Vidhi includes:
Taking a holy bath early in the morning.
Offering pind (rice balls), black sesame seeds, and water to ancestors.
Performing Tarpan with devotion.
Feeding Brahmins and donating essentials.
Rituals and Puja of Pitru Paksha
Pind Daan: Offering rice balls mixed with ghee and black sesame.
Tarpan: Offering water with sesame seeds.
Brahmin Bhoj: Feeding Brahmins and giving donations.
Mantra Chanting: Reciting Vishnu Sahasranama and Pitru Chalisa.
Types of Shradh Puja
Types of Shradh Puja are –
Nitya Shradh: Daily prayers for ancestors.
Parvana Shradh: Annual Shradh performed on the death anniversary.
Ekodishta Shradh: Performed for a single ancestor.
Sapindikarana Shradh: Performed after one year of death.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Pitru Paksha 2025 start?
Pitru Paksha starts on 7 September 2025.
When does Pitru Paksha 2025 end?
It ends on 21 September 2025, with Sarva Pitru Amavasya.
Can I perform Shradh if I don’t know the tithi?
Yes, you can perform it on Sarva Pitru Amavasya.
What should I donate during Pitru Paksha?
Food, clothes, sesame seeds, ghee, and Dakshina are ideal offerings.