Pitru Paksha – Rituals, Legends & Dos and Don’ts for Honoring Ancestors

Pitru Paksha, also known as Shraddh Paksha, is a sacred 15–16 day period in the Hindu lunar calendar dedicated to remembering and appeasing one’s ancestors. It is believed that during this time, the souls of the departed descend to Earth to receive offerings and bless their descendants.

Scriptural Insight

The Bhagavad Gita teaches that the soul is eternal—“Na jayate mriyate va kadachin”—it is neither born nor does it die. The rituals of Shraddh and Tarpan help the soul attain peace and merge with the divine, fulfilling its journey toward moksha.

The Legend of Karna

As per the Mahabharata, when Karna reached heaven, he was offered jewels instead of food. Indra explained that Karna had never offered food to his ancestors. Karna was granted 16 days on Earth to perform Tarpan, which became the origin of Pitru Paksha. These days are believed to be when ancestors visit Earth to accept offerings and bless their lineage.

Sacred Places for Tarpan

Performing rituals at spiritually potent locations is considered highly meritorious. Some revered sites include:

Prayaga (Triveni Sangam)
Varanasi
Gaya
Rameswaram
Kedarnath
Badrinath
Nasik
Kapal Mochan
Sesh Ambadi

Rituals Performed

Tarpan: Offering water mixed with sesame seeds, barley, and kusha grass
Pind Daan: Rice balls offered to symbolize the physical body of the departed
Shraddh Bhoj: Feeding Brahmins, crows, cows, and dogs
Mahadaan: Charitable offerings to remove Pitru Dosha

If travel to sacred sites is not possible, rituals may be performed at home by inviting Brahmins and offering food, clothes, and dakshina.

Who Performs the Rituals?

Traditionally, the eldest son or male head of the family performs the rites. If unavailable, any male family member may do so with sincerity and devotion.

Things to Avoid During Pitru Paksha