These 16 days are marked by rituals such as Shraddha and Tarpan, with water and food offered in remembrance of ancestors. Pitru Paksha is a time when many families pause to remember and honor loved ones who have passed away. If you are observing Pitru Paksha this year, knowing the dates, traditional timings and basic steps can help you follow the rituals with greater clarity.
Water and food offerings are traditionally believed to bring peace to departed souls and blessings of health and good fortune to living family members. Gurudev Vikrant Jain, Chairman and Founder of the Indian Institute of Vedic Science (IIVS), has also suggested using this period to work on Pitru Dosha. Shraddha is traditionally performed on the tithi, or lunar day, that corresponds to the ancestor’s date of passing. Tarpan is a traditional ritual in which water is offered in remembrance of ancestors. If you are performing it at home, the basic steps are: Prepare water and black sesame: Mix black sesame seeds with water, then place the offering in a copper vessel. A simple steel vessel can also be used at home. Light a lamp and offer food: Simple foods such as rice, dal and kheer are commonly offered as part of the observance. Share food or help someone in need: Many families traditionally offer food to a Brahmin, a cow, or a crow. You can also extend the practice by offering food to someone who is hungry or in need.
If you are following the ritual at home, you may wish to check the relevant tithi according to your location and family tradition.
