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KarmaVaani

Vrat · September–October

Pitru Paksha and Mahalaya

Also known as Shraddha

A fortnight for remembering ancestors, ending on Mahalaya Amavasya.

A brass vessel of water with black sesame seeds and kusha grass on a riverbank stone, quiet grey morning light

The dark fortnight before Navaratri is set aside for the pitrs, the ancestors. Families offer tarpan, water mixed with sesame, and shraddha, food offerings, on the tithi on which a parent or grandparent died. Mahalaya Amavasya, the last day, is for all ancestors, including those whose tithi is not known. In Bengal it also marks the beginning of the Devi Paksha.

Why it is kept

It repays the debt to those who came before, the pitru rina.

Step by step

How to observe it

  1. Offer tarpan

    Water with black sesame and kusha grass is offered while remembering ancestors by name.

  2. Shraddha on the right tithi

    Food is prepared and offered on the tithi of the ancestor’s death, often guided by a priest.

  3. Feed others

    A portion is given to crows, cows and dogs, and to the needy.

Customs differ between regions, communities and families. Where your family or temple has its own way, follow it.

Fasting

Fasting

Many avoid celebrations and new purchases during the fortnight; the person performing shraddha eats only after it.

Fasts should suit your health. Children, elders, pregnant women and anyone unwell or on medication should eat, or keep a lighter fast; that is the tradition, not an exception to it.

Traditions

  • Tarpan
  • Shraddha
  • Feeding Brahmins, cows, crows and the needy