Pitru Paksha 2025: Start and end dates, significance, and rituals for honoring ancestrors

Pitru Paksha, a significant period in the Hindu calendar, is dedicated to paying homage to ancestors through rituals such as Shradh and Tarpan. This 16-day observance, also referred to as Sorah Shraddha, Mahalaya, Apara Paksha, or Pitarpas, is considered spiritually potent yet inauspicious due to its association with death rites. In 2025, Pitru Paksha will commence on September 7 and conclude on September 21 with Sarvapitri Amavasya (Mahalaya Amavasya).

Pitru Paksha 2025: Start and End Dates

Event	Date
Pitru Paksha Start	September 7, 2025
Pitru Paksha End	September 21, 2025
Sarvapitri Amavasya (Mahalaya Amavasya)	September 21, 2025

Significance of Pitru Paksha

Pitru Paksha is regarded as a sacred period when it is believed that the souls of ancestors descend to Earth to receive offerings from their descendants. Performing Shradh during this time is thought to alleviate Pitru Rin (ancestral debt) and invite blessings, peace, and guidance from departed souls.

Pitru Paksha Rituals

Rituals during Pitru Paksha vary across India, but commonly include:

• Usually conducted by the eldest son, starting with a purification bath.
• Offering simple meals like rice, dal, and vegetables to Brahmins.
• Pouring water mixed with sesame seeds while reciting prayers.
• Donating clothes and food, and feeding cows, dogs, and crows, which is considered auspicious.

Regional Observances

• Gaya, Bihar: Viewed as the most sacred site for performing Shradh. Devotees gather at the Ganga ghats for Pitru Tarpan, believed to provide higher spiritual merit.
• Southern & Western India: Observed in the second half of Bhadrapada, following Ganesh Utsav.
• North India: Special prayers are offered along riverbanks and in temples dedicated to ancestors.