The spiritual calendar of Hinduism is rich with rituals that bind the living with the departed. One such sacred observance is Pitru Paksha, 16 days dedicated to honouring ancestors. This year, Pitru Paksha begins on Sunday, September 7, 2025, and will conclude on Sunday, September 21, 2025. Marked by prayers, offerings, and rituals, this period is seen as a time to express gratitude toward forefathers and seek their blessings for peace, prosperity, and spiritual elevation.
What is Pitru Paksha?
Pitru Paksha, also known as Shraddha Paksha, is a deeply spiritual time observed by Hindus to pay homage to departed souls. The term Pitru refers to ancestors, while Paksha means a fortnight. It is believed that during this time, the souls of forefathers descend to the Earth to receive offerings, prayers, and blessings from their descendants. These rituals are intended to help the souls attain moksha, or liberation from the cycle of birth and death, granting them eternal peace.
The period emphasises remembrance, respect, and selfless acts of charity. People perform rituals, offer food (known as pinda dan), and donate to the needy. It is a time for reflection, spiritual cleansing, and strengthening family bonds through shared ancestral reverence.
Pitru Paksha 2025: Important Dates & Tithi Schedule
Pitru Paksha follows the lunar calendar, beginning from Bhadrapada Purnima and ending with Sarva Pitri Amavasya. Below is the detailed tithi schedule for 2025, so you can plan your observances accordingly:
| Date | Shraddh Day | Tithi Begins | Tithi Ends |
|---|---|---|---|
| September 7, 2025 | Purnima Shraddh | 01:41 AM | 11:38 PM |
| September 8, 2025 | Pratipada Shraddh | 11:38 PM (Sep 7) | 09:11 PM |
| September 10, 2025 | Dwitiya Shraddh | 09:11 PM (Sep 8) | 06:28 PM |
| September 10, 2025 | Tritiya Shraddh | 06:28 PM (Sep 9) | 03:37 PM |
| September 11, 2025 | Chaturthi Shraddh | 03:37 PM (Sep 10) | 12:45 PM |
| September 12, 2025 | Panchami Shraddh | 12:45 PM (Sep 11) | 09:58 AM |
| September 13, 2025 | Shashthi Shraddh | 09:58 AM (Sep 12) | 07:23 AM |
| September 14, 2025 | Saptami Shraddh | 07:23 AM (Sep 13) | 05:04 AM |
| September 15, 2025 | Ashtami Shraddh | 05:04 AM (Sep 14) | 03:06 AM |
| September 16, 2025 | Navami Shraddh | 03:06 AM (Sep 15) | 01:31 AM |
| September 17, 2025 | Dashami Shraddh | 01:31 AM (Sep 16) | 12:21 AM |
| September 18, 2025 | Ekadashi Shraddh | 12:21 AM (Sep 17) | 11:39 PM |
| September 19, 2025 | Dwadashi Shraddh | 11:39 PM (Sep 17) | 11:24 PM |
| September 20, 2025 | Trayodashi Shraddh | 11:24 PM (Sep 18) | 11:36 PM |
| September 21, 2025 | Chaturdashi Shraddh | 11:36 PM (Sep 19) | 12:16 AM |
| September 21, 2025 | Sarva Pitri Amavasya | 12:16 AM | 01:23 AM (Sep 22) |
Significance of Mahalaya Amavasya
The concluding day, Sarva Pitri Amavasya (also known as Mahalaya Amavasya), is the most significant day of the entire fortnight. On this day, families perform collective rituals, prayers, and offerings to honour all ancestors at once. It is believed that any soul left unattended or without descendants also receives blessings on this sacred day. The rituals performed on Mahalaya Amavasya are considered highly potent in granting peace to departed souls and removing obstacles from the family’s life.
Rituals, Offerings & Practices During Pitru Paksha
Pitru Paksha rituals vary by region but typically include:
- Pinda Dan: Offering rice balls mixed with sesame seeds, ghee, and other ingredients to the departed souls.
- Tarpan: Water offerings made to ancestors to quench their spiritual thirst and provide comfort.
- Puja and Havan: Ritual fire ceremonies are performed to invite the presence of forefathers and seek their blessings.
- Daan (Charity): Donation of food, clothes, and other essentials to the poor and needy is considered highly auspicious.
- Feeding Cows, Brahmins, and Birds: Acts of kindness are believed to carry positive spiritual merit.
Do’s and Don’ts During Pitru Paksha
Pitru Paksha is not only about rituals but also about observing certain behavioural disciplines:
Do’s:
- Perform Shraddha rituals with sincerity and devotion.
- Feed Brahmins, cows, birds, and the needy as part of charity work.
- Offer water and food to ancestors with gratitude.
- Pray for peace, spiritual growth, and the welfare of your family.
Don’ts:
- It is considered inauspicious to celebrate weddings, festivals, or start new ventures during this period.
- Avoid buying luxury items such as gold, jewellery, and real estate during Pitru Paksha.
- Do not perform any harmful or unethical activities.
- Refrain from harsh words, arguments, or unnecessary disputes within the family.
Spiritual Benefits of Observing Pitru Paksha
Following the rituals with devotion during this sacred period is believed to bring immense spiritual benefits:
- Moksha: Performing Shraddha helps the departed soul attain liberation and peace.
- Removal of Obstacles: The blessings of ancestors protect families from hardships and negative energy.
- Strengthened Bonds: Remembering and honouring forefathers fosters unity and respect within the family.
- Inner Healing: Acts of charity and prayer purify the mind and offer emotional closure.
Pitru Paksha 2025 is more than just a ritual—it is a heartfelt reminder to honor our roots and cherish the blessings of those who came before us. As you prepare for this sacred fortnight, approach it with mindfulness, compassion, and a spirit of gratitude. Whether you're performing traditional rituals or offering a simple prayer, the essence of Pitru Paksha lies in love, remembrance, and spiritual connection.
Celebrate this sacred time by embracing your heritage, offering kindness, and finding peace in honouring the legacy of your ancestors.
Also Read: Chandra Grahan 2025: Date, Sutak Time and Effects in India
About the Author:
Akanksha Sinha
I’m Akanksha Sinha, a dedicated Sports Content Writer and Blogger with proven expertise in creating engaging sports blogs, news stories, and entertainment-driven articles. With a passion for storytelling and a strong command of research, I strive to deliver content that not only informs but also captivates readers across all age groups. At Possible11, she covers fantasy sports, match previews, and trending topics, making her a trusted voice for sports enthusiasts.
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