🕉️ Pitra Paksha (पितृ पक्ष)
Pitra Paksha also called Shraddha Paksha, is a sacred period in the Hindu calendar dedicated to remembering and honoring deceased ancestors (Pitrs). It is traditionally observed for about 15 lunar days, beginning on Purnima and ending on Amavasya, which is known as Sarva Pitru Amavasya or Mahalaya Amavasya.
🌿 Significance
According to Hindu tradition, during Pitra Paksha people:
Perform Shraddha and Tarpan for departed ancestors.
Offer water, sesame seeds, flowers and food as acts of remembrance.
Pray for the peace and spiritual well-being of their ancestors.
Express gratitude toward previous generations and remember their family lineage.
📿 Shraddha & Tarpan
Tarpan generally involves offering water, often mixed with black sesame seeds, while remembering the ancestors.
Shraddha is a ritual of respect and remembrance that may include offerings of food and charitable acts.
The rituals are commonly performed according to the death anniversary (tithi) of an ancestor. If the exact tithi is unknown, Sarva Pitru Amavasya is traditionally considered an appropriate day to perform remembrance rituals for multiple ancestors.