Pitri Paksha
Pitri Paksha
Pitri Paksha (Sanskrit: पितृ पक्ष, "fortnight of the ancestors") is a 16-lunar day period in the Hindu calendar when Hindus pay homage to their ancestors ("Pitrs"), especially through food offerings. This period is considered inauspicious, given the death rites performed during this time.
Etymology[edit | edit source]
The term "Pitri Paksha" is derived from two Sanskrit words: "Pitri" meaning ancestors and "Paksha" meaning a fortnight. It is also known as "Shraddha Paksha" or "Mahalaya Paksha."
Significance[edit | edit source]
Pitri Paksha is a time dedicated to performing rituals for the deceased ancestors. According to Hindu beliefs, the souls of three preceding generations of one's ancestors reside in "Pitru-loka," a realm between heaven and earth governed by Yama, the god of death. During Pitri Paksha, these souls are believed to visit their descendants on earth to receive offerings.
Rituals[edit | edit source]
The primary ritual performed during Pitri Paksha is "Shraddha," a ceremony that involves offering food and water to the ancestors. The ritual is usually performed by the eldest male member of the family, although women can also perform it if necessary.
Shraddha Ceremony[edit | edit source]
The Shraddha ceremony typically includes the following steps:
1. Tarpana: Offering water mixed with sesame seeds to the ancestors. 2. Pind Daan: Offering rice balls ("pindas") to the ancestors. 3. Feeding Brahmins: Inviting Brahmins to partake in a meal, as it is believed that feeding Brahmins is equivalent to feeding the ancestors. 4. Recitation of Mantras: Chanting specific mantras to invoke the blessings of the ancestors.
Timing[edit | edit source]
Pitri Paksha begins on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Hindu month of Bhadrapada and ends on the new moon day (Amavasya) known as "Mahalaya Amavasya." The exact dates vary each year based on the lunar calendar.
Cultural Variations[edit | edit source]
While Pitri Paksha is observed across India, the customs and rituals can vary significantly between regions. In some parts of India, the last day of Pitri Paksha, known as "Mahalaya," marks the beginning of the Durga Puja festival.
Also see[edit | edit source]
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