Pitru Paksha Shradh 2024: Significance, Dates, and Rituals
Pitru Paksha also known as Shradh or Mahalaya Paksha, is an important 15-day period in Hindu tradition where people honor their ancestors (Pitras) by performing rituals such as Shradh, Tarpan, and Pind Daan. It is believed that during this time, the souls of deceased ancestors come to the Earth to bless their descendants with happiness, prosperity, and success. By performing these rituals, any Pitru Dosha (ancestral curse) in one’s horoscope is also believed to be removed.
Dates of Pitru Paksha 2024
This year, Pitru Paksha will begin on September 17, 2024 and conclude on October 2, 2024. According to the Hindu calendar, Pitru Paksha starts on the full moon day (Purnima) of the month of Bhadrapada and ends on the new moon day (Amavasya) in the month of Ashwin.
- Purnima Shradh (Full Moon Ritual): September 17, 2024
- Start of Pitru Paksha (Pratipada Tithi): September 18, 2024
- End of Pitru Paksha (Sarva Pitru Amavasya): October 2, 2024
Importance of Shradh and Tarpan
During Pitru Paksha, the offerings made to the ancestors through rituals like Shradh, Tarpan (water offerings), and Pind Daan (offering rice balls) are considered highly significant. These acts are done to ensure peace for the departed souls. Along with these rituals, feeding the needy and giving donations also carry great importance, as it is believed to bring blessings from the ancestors.
Key Dates for Pitru Paksh Shradh in 2024
Here are some of the key dates for performing Shradh rituals during Pitru Paksha in 2024:
- Purnima Shradh – September 17, 2024
- Pratipada Shradh – September 18, 2024
- Dwitiya Shradh – September 19, 2024
- Tritiya Shradh – September 20, 2024
- Chaturthi Shradh – September 21, 2024
- Panchami Shradh – September 22, 2024
- Sashti & Saptami Shradh – September 23, 2024
- Ashtami Shradh – September 24, 2024
- Navami Shradh – September 25, 2024
- Dashami Shradh – September 26, 2024
- Ekadashi Shradh – September 27, 2024
- Dwadashi Shradh – September 29, 2024
- Trayodashi Shradh – September 30, 2024
- Chaturdashi Shradh – October 1, 2024
- Sarva Pitru Amavasya (End of Pitru Paksha) – October 2, 2024
Auspicious Timings (Shradh Muhurat)
According to Hindu tradition, specific times are consider more auspicious for performing Shradh rituals. Also, these are called Kuthup and Rohin Muhurats:
- Kuthup Muhurat: 11:51 AM to 12:40 PM
- Rohin Muhurat: 12:40 PM to 1:29 PM
- Aparahna Kaal: 1:29 PM to 3:56 PM
During these times, the rituals are believe to be more effective, and the blessings of the ancestors can be receive fully.
Pitru Paksha is a time for showing respect and gratitude towards our ancestors. By observing Shradh and performing Tarpan during this period, families not only honor their ancestors but also bring peace and prosperity to their lives. Whether by performing rituals at home or at sacred places, these acts help maintain a strong connection with our heritage and traditions.
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