Pitru Paksha

Tarpan - Jagannath Ghat - Kolkata 2012-10-15 0622

Durga idol 2011 Burdwan

Shora Shraddha at Pashupatinath Temple

Pitru Paksha (Pitr Paksha), also known as Shraaddha or Kanagat, is a period of fifteen days dedicated to the ancestors, observed by Hindus. It falls in the Hindu lunar month of Bhadrapada (September-October), beginning with the full moon day (Purnima) that occurs immediately after the Ganesh Chaturthi festival and ends with the new moon day known as Sarvapitri Amavasya or Mahalaya Amavasya. During Pitru Paksha, Hindus pay homage to their ancestors (Pitrs), especially through food offerings.

Significance

The significance of Pitru Paksha lies in the Hindu belief that the rituals performed during this period help in providing peace and salvation (Moksha) to the souls of the ancestors. It is a time for remembering and honoring the ancestors, reflecting on their contribution to the family's lineage and seeking their blessings. The Bhagavad Gita underscores the importance of performing duties towards ancestors, and the non-performance of these rituals is believed to bring dissatisfaction among the ancestors.

Rituals

The main ritual of Pitru Paksha involves the offering of Shraaddha, which includes a specially prepared meal that is offered to the ancestors. The meal typically consists of kheer (rice pudding), lapse (a sweet made from wheat flour, sugar, and ghee), rice, dal (lentils), the vegetable of spring bean, and pumpkin. The ritual is performed by the male head of the family or a priest, and it is done facing south, the direction associated with the realm of the ancestors. The offerings are made on a specific date during this period, determined by the Hindu lunar calendar, based on the death anniversary of the ancestor.

Tarpan

Another important ritual during Pitru Paksha is Tarpan, in which water mixed with black sesame seeds is offered to the ancestors. This act is believed to quench the thirst of the souls of the ancestors on their journey in the afterlife.

Dates and Observances

The dates of Pitru Paksha vary each year according to the Hindu lunar calendar. It starts on the full moon day in the month of Bhadrapada and ends with the new moon day in the same month. Each day of Pitru Paksha is dedicated to performing Shraaddha for ancestors who died on that particular Tithi (lunar day).

Cultural Impact

Pitru Paksha has a significant cultural impact, with many Hindus refraining from starting new ventures, buying new items, or holding auspicious ceremonies during this period, as it is considered inauspicious for such activities. Instead, the focus is on remembering and paying homage to the ancestors.

Conclusion

Pitru Paksha serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of family and lineage within Hindu culture. It reinforces the values of respect, remembrance, and gratitude towards the ancestors, ensuring their memories and contributions to the family's heritage are honored and preserved.