- By Kashish Rai
- Wed, 18 Sep 2024 10:55 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Shradh 2024: In Hinduism, Shradh, also known as Pitru Paksha, holds immense significance as a 16-day period dedicated to paying homage to one's ancestors. It is believed that during this time, the souls of the departed return to earth to seek blessings and solace from their descendants. Performing Shradh rituals, such as offering food and water to the ancestors through Brahmins or priests, ensures the peaceful journey of the deceased to the afterlife. This year, Pitru Paksha began on 17th September 2024.
However, to avoid inadvertently offending one's ancestors, it is essential to observe certain guidelines and prohibitions during Pitru Paksha. Let us check out the key dos and don'ts to be mindful of during this significant period.
Shradh 2024: Do’s And Don’ts To Follow During Pitru Paksha
DO’s
Offer Food and Water (Tarpan)
During Pitru Paksha, offering food and water to ancestors through Tarpan is essential. Prepare a mixture of cooked rice, sesame seeds, and water, and offer it to the ancestors. This ritual, typically performed by the eldest son or a male family member, ensures the ancestors' souls are nourished. Use a Tulsi leaf or a Darbha grass blade to pour the offering, symbolising respect and gratitude. This act pleases the ancestors, granting blessings and prosperity.
Perform Shradh Puja
Performing Shradh Puja is vital to honour ancestors. Offer prayers, flowers, and incense sticks to invoke their blessings. Use specific mantras, such as 'Pitru Devata' or 'Pitru Stotram', to appease them. Invite Brahmins or priests to perform the ritual, ensuring its authenticity. This puja helps ancestors attain peace and liberation while granting descendants prosperity, happiness, and spiritual growth.
Provide Food to Brahmins and Cows
Feeding Brahmins and cows during Pitru Paksha is considered auspicious. Offer simple, vegetarian meals to Brahmins, symbolising respect for knowledge and spirituality. Cows, revered as sacred animals, should be fed with grass, rice, or other edible items. This act pleases ancestors, who consider these creatures sacred. By doing so, descendants seek forgiveness, blessings, and spiritual growth.
Offering tarpan and shradh are significant rites during Pitru Paksha. (Image Source: Canva)
DONT’s
Do Not Consume Non-Vegetarian Food
Refrain from consuming non-vegetarian food and liquor during Pitru Paksha. Ancestors are believed to be displeased by such indulgences, considering them impure. Abstaining from meat and liquor ensures a peaceful atmosphere, conducive to ancestral worship. Instead, opt for vegetarian meals, promoting spiritual purity and ancestor satisfaction.
Do Not Engage In New Beginnings
Avoid initiating new ventures, relationships, or purchases during Pitru Paksha. This period is considered inauspicious for new beginnings, as ancestors' energies are focused on seeking solace. Postpone important life decisions, weddings, or investments until after the period concludes. Doing so prevents ancestral displeasure and potential obstacles in future endeavours.
Do Not Show Disrespect to Elders
Treat elders with respect and kindness during Pitru Paksha. Avoid conflicts, arguments, or harsh words, as these actions displease ancestors. Show reverence to older family members, Brahmins, and spiritual leaders. By doing so, descendants seek ancestral blessings, wisdom, and protection.
Do Not Neglect Ancestral Rituals
Failing to perform ancestral rituals during Pitru Paksha invites ancestral displeasure. Ensure timely Tarpan, Shradh Puja, and other prescribed rituals. Neglecting these duties may lead to ancestral curses, hindering family progress and well-being. Assign responsibility to a family member or seek guidance from a priest to ensure proper observance.
ALSO READ: Shradh 2024 Start Date: Check Calendar For Pitru Paksha; Know When To Perform Tarpan And Pind Daan
(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information. Jagran English does not confirm its veracity. Before adopting any measures, consult an expert in the relevant fields.)