- By Kashish Rai
- Fri, 13 Sep 2024 11:04 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Pitru Paksha 2024: Mahalaya Paksha or Pitru Paksha, a 16-day period in the Hindu calendar, holds great significance in honouring one's ancestors. It is believed that during this time, the souls of the departed return to earth to bless their descendants. Hindus pay homage to their ancestors through offerings of food, water, and prayers, ensuring their souls attain peace and liberation. This period is a reminder of the importance of respecting and remembering one's heritage, and the responsibility of descendants to ensure the well-being of their ancestors in the afterlife. It's a time for reflection, gratitude, and spiritual growth.
In this article, we aim to clarify the correct date of Pitru Paksha in 2024 and provide an overview of the key aspects of this sacred period, thereby offering a comprehensive understanding of its observance.
Pitru Paksha 2024: Start And End Date
Pitru Paksha usually starts on the Purnima (full moon day) in the month of Bhadrapada and culminates on the new moon day in Ashwin, following the traditional Hindu lunar calendar.
This year, Pitru Paksha commences on 17th September 2024 and concludes on 3rd October 2024, offering a dedicated timeframe for Hindus to honour their ancestors and pay respects to their departed loved ones.
Pitru Paksha 2024: Rituals Associated With Mahalaya Or Pitru Paksha
Shradh is a crucial ritual during Pitru Paksha, where we pay tribute to our ancestors by offering food, water, and other items. The word "Shradh" comes from the Sanskrit word "Shraddha", meaning faith and respect. By performing Shradh, Hindus demonstrate their faith and respect for their ancestors, seeking their blessings and peace. It's believed that the ancestors' souls are nourished by these offerings, helping them attain liberation.
Tarpan and Shradh rituals during Pitru Paksha nourish ancestors' souls, bringing peace and liberation, and ensuring their blessings for descendants. (Image Source: Canva)
During Pitru Paksha, rituals like Tarpan (offering water) and Pind Daan (offering rice balls) are performed. Hindus also offer sesame seeds, barley, and other grains, symbolising the cycle of life and death. These rituals are typically performed by the eldest son or a male family member, who offers the items to the ancestors while facing south, the direction associated with the ancestors. By following these rituals, Hindus ensure that their ancestors' souls are at peace, and their blessings continue to guide them.
During Pitru Paksha, it's considered inauspicious to start new ventures, buy new things, or get married. This period is meant for reflection, remembrance, and paying homage to ancestors, rather than beginning new life events or activities.
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(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information. Jagran English does not confirm its veracity. Before adopting any measurers, consult an expert in the relevant field.)