Pitru Paksha 2024: Vedic astrologer Rahul Bhardwaj has highlighted the significant importance of Pitru Paksha, a period dedicated to honoring ancestors and performing shraddhas. This year, Pitru Paksha begins on September 17 and concludes on October 2, spanning 16 days. During this time, people perform rituals to pay homage to their forefathers and seek their blessings.
Significance of Pitru Paksha:
Pitru Paksha, also known as Shraddh Paksha, is a sacred period in Hindu tradition where the souls of ancestors are honored. It is believed that performing Pitru Paksha rituals helps liberate ancestors from the cycle of birth and death, granting them moksha (liberation). This period is deemed extremely important in Hinduism, with specific dos and don’ts to observe.
Pitru Paksha 2024: Important Dates:
September 17, 2024: On this date, Anant Bhagwan will be worshipped in the morning. The first Shraddha (Nandi Shraddha) will be observed during Kuttap Kala from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM.
September 18, 2024: Pratipada Shraddha
September 19, 2024: Dwitiya Shraddha
Rituals and Guidelines:
Pitru Tarpan:
It is highly beneficial to perform Pitru Tarpan, a ritual where offerings are made to appease ancestors. Engaging Vedic Brahmins for this purpose is considered auspicious. The act of feeding Brahmins, along with donating clothes and other essentials, is regarded as very favorable.
Feeding Animals:
During Pitru Paksha, feeding cows, crows, dogs, and ants is considered extremely beneficial. This act is believed to bring blessings and good fortune.
Abstaining from Certain Foods:
It is advised to avoid tamasic foods like onions and garlic during this period.
Avoiding Auspicious Events:
Marriage, engagements, and other auspicious ceremonies are generally avoided during this time. It is also recommended to refrain from buying new clothes, shoes, or other items. Haircuts, nail cutting, and shaving should be avoided as well.
Religious Practices:
Individuals with Pitru Dosha in their horoscopes are encouraged to perform Pind Daan at sacred places such as Gaya, Ujjain, and other religious sites. Following this, it is recommended to conduct family rituals, including the Pitru Gayatri Anushthan, performed by Vedic Brahmins.
Avoiding New Purchases:
Buying new clothes, gold, or silver during this period is considered inauspicious. Additionally, entering a new home (Griha Pravesh) is prohibited, as it is believed to bring misfortune.
Pitru Paksha is a time for reverence and remembrance, allowing individuals to connect with their ancestors and seek their blessings. Observing these rituals and guidelines helps in gaining spiritual merit and ensuring the well-being of both the living and the departed souls.
