Pitru Paksha 2026 start date and end date: Check when Shradh begins, ends, rituals to follow and what to avoid

Pitru Paksha 2026, also known as Shradh, will begin on September 27 and continue until October 10. The 16-day period is dedicated to remembering and paying tribute to ancestors through rituals such as Shradh, Tarpan and Pind Daan. The observance will end with Sarvapitru Amavasya on October 10.

Pitru Paksha 2026 Start and End date

This year, Pitru Paksha will start from September 27th and will continue till 10th October.

Shraddha Rituals Are Based On The Ancestor’s Death Date

One of the most important aspects of Shraddha during Pitru Paksha is that the rituals are performed according to the date on which an ancestor passed away. Families observe the ceremony on the corresponding tithi as per the Hindu calendar.

Food Is Offered To Cows, Dogs And Crows

In many places, a portion of the food prepared for Shraddha is also offered to cows, dogs, crows and other animals. Before serving food to a Brahmin on the day of Shraddha, families traditionally set aside portions for a cow, dog, crow, god and ant. It is believed that food offered in this manner reaches the ancestors directly.

How To Perform Tarpan For Ancestors

While offering water to the ancestors, devotees traditionally use a copper vessel containing clean water, a small quantity of raw milk, Ganga water and black sesame seeds.

Kusha grass is also considered important during the ritual. It is traditionally worn on the ring finger of the right hand while performing the offering.

Pitru Paksha is traditionally considered a period for remembering and paying respect to ancestors rather than celebrating major occasions or beginning new ventures.

Activities Many Families Prefer To Avoid

Because of these traditional beliefs, many families choose to refrain from activities such as:

• Starting a new business or venture
• Purchasing expensive or luxury items
• Shifting to a new house
• Organising weddings or other major celebrations

The period is generally observed with a focus on remembrance, gratitude and honouring family ancestors and traditions.

Donations During Pitru Paksha

During Pitru Paksha, donating food, clothes, footwear and sesame seeds to people in need is considered spiritually significant. Many families include charity and acts of service as part of their observance during these days.

Which Direction To Face During Tarpan?

While performing Tarpan, water is traditionally offered while facing the south direction, as the south is considered the direction associated with ancestors.

Follow Family Traditions And Local Customs

The most important consideration is to perform Shraddha rituals according to one's family traditions and local customs. Practices can differ slightly across communities and regions, so the specific rituals followed during Pitru Paksha may vary from one family to another.