Pitru Paksha

Pitri Paksha, also known as Pitru Paksha or Pitr Paksha, is a special 16-day period in the Hindu calendar dedicated to honoring one's ancestors through food offerings. This period is often perceived as inauspicious because it involves death rites, specifically a ceremony called Shraddha or Tarpana. It occurs during the lunar month of Bhadrapada, typically in September, in southern and western India, immediately following Ganesh Utsav. The period commences on the first day of the fortnight and concludes with Sarvapitri Amavasya or Mahalaya, often coinciding with the autumnal equinox.

According to Hindu beliefs, during Pitri Paksha, the souls of three generations of ancestors dwell in Pitriloka, a realm situated between heaven and earth. It is believed that during this time, these ancestors visit the homes of their living descendants. The legend of Karna from the Mahabharata is frequently associated with the origin of Pitri Paksha. In the story, Karna is granted a temporary return to Earth to perform Shraddha for his ancestors.

Performing Shraddha during Pitri Paksha is considered vital for aiding the souls of ancestors in reaching heaven. The scriptures emphasize the importance of honoring one's ancestors to receive their blessings, which are believed to bring health, wealth, knowledge, and ultimately, salvation. The rituals of Shraddha are performed on specific lunar days, depending on the deceased's status or the circumstances of their death.

The food offerings made during Shraddha include traditional dishes such as kheer, lapsi, rice, lentils, and vegetables, typically cooked in silver or copper vessels. The rituals involve taking purifying baths, invoking ancestors, offering pindas (balls of rice or barley), worshipping deities like Vishnu and Yama, and feeding crows, cows, dogs, and Brahmins.

In addition to performing Shraddha, some families recite scriptures, make charitable donations, or hire priests to recite prayers for the well-being of their ancestors during Pitri Paksha. This period holds significant cultural and religious importance in Hindu traditions, underscoring the connection between past, present, and future generations through the lineage of ancestors.