Pitru Paksha: All Your Questions Answered

Pitru Paksha began this weekend, and many of you have been asking me about it. So I’ve gathered your most common questions in one place, each with a short answer. You can also watch my video for more details.

Pitru Paksha is ultimately about gratitude for the people who came before us. Even a quiet prayer or a meal shared in their name carries meaning.

What is Pitru Paksha?​
​A fortnight in the Hindu calendar dedicated to remembering and honoring ancestors.

What does “Pitru Paksha” mean?​
​“Pitru” refers to ancestors (pitris), while “Paksha” means a lunar fortnight (krishna paksha i.e. waning phase).

When is Pitru Paksha in 2026?​
​It began yesterday, Saturday 26 right after the Full Moon and ends on Saturday, October 10 with Sarvapitri Amavasya (New Moon).

I know nothing about rituals and these customs. Can I just chant mantras during Pitru Paksha?​
​Absolutely. More than rituals, it is your intentions that matter. You can chant the following mantras throughout these 15 days.

What if I don’t know an ancestor’s death date or Tithi?​
​You can observe Shraddha or do tarpan rituals on Sarva Pitru Amavasya, the final day.

If I am traveling, can I observe Pitru Paksha away from home?​
​Yes, families may make offerings or remember ancestors wherever they are.

What are Tarpan and Pind Daan?​
​Tarpan is offering water mixed with black sesame seeds to ancestors, while Pind Daan is offering rice balls (pindas) for their peace.

Can women do Tarpan?​
​Yes, absolutely. In fact everyone in the family can offer tarpan.

What is the best time of the day for the rituals?​
​Shradh or Tarpan is traditionally performed in the afternoon, during the Kutup, Rohina and Aparahna muhurata, so check your local Panchang for exact timings but afternoon (during sunlight) is ideal.

What should be avoided during this period?​
​Avoid new beginnings like weddings, housewarmings, and major purchases, along with non-vegetarian food, alcohol, onion, and garlic.

Can I do the rituals at home without a priest?​
​Yes, a simple Tarpan with water, black sesame, and a heartfelt prayer at home is very powerful.

What happens after Pitru Paksha ends?​
​Sharad Navratri begins the day after, marking a shift from remembrance to celebration.

• PITRU PAKSHA: Sep 26 through Oct 10 [Video]. Participate in Pitru Paksha yagya.
• NAVRATRI: Oct 10 to 20 [Video]. Participate in Navratri japa and yagya.
• Learn Bhrigu Nandi Nadi Jyotish. Join Live Course​

Namaste,
​Amit Garg