Pitru Paksh is a 16-day period in the Hindu calendar that starts from the full moon day (Purnima) of the Bhadrapada month and ends on the new moon day (Amavasya) of the Ashwin month. This period is dedicated to honoring and paying homage to the souls of our ancestors. It is believed that during Pitru Paksh, ancestors descend to the earth to bless their descendants, and offering them respect and rituals can bring prosperity, peace, and happiness.
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Importance of Pitru Paksh:
Pitru Paksh holds special significance in Hinduism. It is a time to remember and offer gratitude to our ancestors, praying for the peace of their souls. The rituals and offerings made during Pitru Paksh are believed to satisfy the souls of the ancestors, who then bless their family members with well-being, prosperity, and peace. It is said that if the ancestors are pleased, the family remains free from obstacles and difficulties, and all forms of dosh (flaws) are mitigated.
Meaning of Shraddh:
The term ‘Shraddh’ comes from the Sanskrit word ‘Shraddha,’ which means ‘faith or devotion.’ Shraddh is a ritual performed with reverence and respect for the peace and satisfaction of the ancestors’ souls. This practice is based on the belief that the souls of the departed are still present among us, and they need our prayers and offerings to be at peace. During Shraddh, food and offerings are made to Brahmins, which is believed to reach the ancestors and appease them.
Shraddh – Dates and Muhurth:
During Pitru Paksh, Shraddh is performed according to the specific tithi (lunar day) on which the ancestor passed away. Each tithi is dedicated to particular ancestors, and performing Shraddh on the exact tithi is considered more fruitful. The timing of Shraddh is crucial and is typically performed during the ‘Kutup Muhurta,’ which is considered to be in the afternoon. This time is deemed to be especially auspicious for performing Shraddh rituals.
3 Most Important Dates in Shraddh:
- Mahalaya Amavasya (Sarva Pitru Amavasya):
This is the last day of Pitru Paksh and is also known as Sarva Pitru Amavasya. On this day, Shraddh is performed for those ancestors whose death tithi is not known. This day is highly significant and is considered the most important day of the entire Pitru Paksh period. - Ashtami Tithi (Ashtami Shraddh):
Ashtami Tithi Shraddh is dedicated to those women in the family who passed away without bearing children. This day is also referred to as ‘Matra Navami.’ Performing Shraddh on this day helps in bringing peace to the souls of these ancestors. - Dwadashi Tithi (Dwadashi Shraddh):
This day is dedicated to those ancestors who met an untimely death. Performing Shraddh on Dwadashi Tithi is believed to bring peace to these souls and helps in mitigating Pitru Dosha, leading to prosperity and well-being in the family.
Pitru Paksh should be observed with devotion, respect, and sincerity. During this period, one should maintain a sattvic (pure) diet and express gratitude towards their ancestors. Pitru Paksh serves as a reminder of the importance of our ancestors in our lives and our responsibility towards them.
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