Pitru Paksha - Saturday, 26 September – Saturday, 10 October, 2026

Pitru Paksha, also known as Mahalaya Paksha or Kanagat, is a 16-day lunar period in the Hindu calendar dedicated to the veneration of ancestors (Pitrus). It is observed during the waning phase (Krishna Paksha) of the Bhadrapada month. It is traditionally believed that during this period, the souls of ancestors visit the earth to accept offerings from their descendants. Performing Shradh rituals during this time is considered an essential duty to ensure the spiritual peace of departed souls and to seek their blessings for the family's prosperity.

2026 Pitru Paksha Schedule

In 2026, Pitru Paksha begins on the Purnima of Bhadrapada and concludes on the Amavasya of the Ashvin month. Shradh should be performed on the specific Tithi (lunar day) corresponding to the ancestor's day of passing.

• Start Date: Saturday, September 26, 2026

• End Date: Sunday, October 11, 2026

Daily Shradh Tithi Calendar 2026:

Core Rituals of Shradh

The performance of Shradh is divided into three primary components:

1. Tarpan: Offering water mixed with black sesame seeds (Til), barley, and flowers. This is a symbolic gesture to satisfy the thirst of the departed souls.

2. Pinda Daan: Offering balls made of cooked rice and black sesame seeds. This represents providing sustenance (Pinda) to the ancestors for their onward journey.

3. Brahman Bhoj: Feeding a learned Brahmin is an integral part of the ritual. The food offered is believed to reach the ancestors through the medium of the Brahmin.

The Five Offerings (Pancha Bali)

Before the family eats, five portions of the prepared meal (pure vegetarian, no onion/garlic) must be offered to:

• Cows (Go Bali): Symbolizing the Earth.

• Dogs (Kukkuta Bali): Symbolizing the guardians of the afterlife.

• Crows (Vayasa Bali): Traditionally considered messengers of the ancestors.

• Deities (Deva Bali): To acknowledge divine grace.

• Ants (Pipilika Bali): Acknowledging the smallest forms of life.

Guidelines for Pitru Paksha Observance

During these 16 days, devotees follow a disciplined lifestyle:

• Auspicious Activities: Traditional customs suggest avoiding major new beginnings, such as buying a house, starting a new business, or holding wedding ceremonies.

• Personal Discipline: Avoid cutting hair, nails, or shaving during the fortnight.

• Sattvic Diet: Stick to a simple vegetarian diet. Avoid non-vegetarian food, alcohol, tobacco, onion, garlic, and masoor dal.

• Time of Ritual: Shradh is best performed during the Kutup Muhurta (approximately 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM) when the sun is directly overhead.

Importance of Sarva Pitru Amavasya

The final day, October 11, 2026, is the most critical day of Pitru Paksha. If you have forgotten the death anniversary of an ancestor, or if you were unable to perform Shradh on their specific Tithi, performing rituals on Sarva Pitru Amavasya provides the same spiritual benefits and completes the ancestral duties for the year.