Pitru Paksha 2024: Pitru Paksha 2024 is set to begin on September 17 and will continue until October 2. This important period, spanning from Bhadrapad Shukla Purnima to Ashwin Krishna Amavasya, consists of sixteen days dedicated to honoring ancestors. In the cycle of sixteen rites outlined by ancient sages, Pitru Paksha falls just before the final rite of Antyeshti (funeral rites), emphasizing its significance.
Dates for Pitru Paksha 2024
- Start Date: September 17, 2024
- End Date: October 2, 2024
How to Please Your Ancestors
To honor your ancestors during Pitru Paksha, perform rituals on the death anniversary of your forebears. This includes offering water, sesame seeds, rice, barley, and Kush grass, or simply conducting a symbolic ritual. Providing meals to Brahmins and offering food to crows and dogs can also earn the favor of your ancestors and alleviate ancestral debts.
Types of Shraddh In Pitru Paksha
Pitru Paksha features several types of Shraddh rituals:
- Pitrupaksha Shraddh: Performed during the afternoon hours and holds primary importance during this period.
- Amavasya Shraddh: For those whose death date is unknown.
- Chaturdashi Shraddh: For deaths caused by fire, poison, accidents, or drowning.
Symbols of Shraddh:
- Kush Grass: Represents Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva respectively at its tips, middle, and root.
- Crow: Symbolizes Yama, the god of death.
- Cow: A symbol of crossing over the Vaitarani river, often honored with the first share of food.
- Dog: Receiving offerings from Shraddh rituals pleases Yama.
Guidelines for Performing Shraddh
It is crucial to conduct Shraddh with devotion and respect. Choose learned Brahmins from three generations who embody virtues, knowledge, and integrity. Avoid activities such as cutting hair or nails, consuming intoxicants, or engaging in indulgent behavior during this period. Conclude your rituals with a plea for forgiveness.
Pitru Paksha Shradh Rituals Date 2024
- September 17: Purnima Shraddh
- September 18: Pratipada Shraddh
- September 19: Dwitiya Shraddh
- September 20: Tritiya Shraddh
- September 21: Chaturthi Shraddh
- September 22: Panchami Shraddh
- September 23: Shashti and Saptami Shraddh
- September 24: Ashtami Shraddh
- September 25: Navami Shraddh
- September 26: Dashami Shraddh
- September 27: Ekadashi Shraddh
- September 29: Dwadasi Shraddh
- September 30: Trayodashi Shraddh
- October 1: Chaturdashi Shraddh
- October 2: Sarva Pitru Amavasya (End of the Period)
Observing these rites with dedication and respect ensures the peace and blessings of your ancestors, helping to resolve ancestral debts and uphold tradition.
