Archive · 10 Oct 2026
Why Tarpan Water Flows From the Thumb During Mahalaya Amavasya
Mahalaya Amavasya is the last day of a Hindu period called Pitru Paksha.
People use this time to remember and honor family members who have died.
One ritual is called Tarpan, in which water is offered while prayers are said.
The water is traditionally poured from a part of the hand near the base of the thumb, called Pitru Tirtha.
The article says this hand position distinguishes offerings for ancestors from offerings for deities or sages.
Some people also offer black sesame seeds.
Many perform Shradh on this day, especially if they do not know the exact date an ancestor died.
In 2026, Mahalaya Amavasya falls on October 10.
Mahalaya Amavasya, also called Sarva Pitru Amavasya, concludes Pitru Paksha.
In 2026, it falls on Saturday, October 10, and also marks the beginning of Shardiya Navratri.
During Tarpan, water is poured through the Pitru Tirtha, near the base of the thumb.
The ritual honors ancestors; offerings may include water and black sesame seeds, with prayers recited according to family customs.
The day is considered especially important for Shradh when an ancestor’s death date is unknown or families wish to honor multiple ancestors.
- Who
- Hindu devotees and families honoring deceased ancestors.
- What
- Mahalaya Amavasya concludes Pitru Paksha; devotees perform rituals including Tarpan and Shradh.
- When
- Saturday, October 10, 2026.
- Where
- At home or near rivers, ponds, and other designated places.
- Why
- To express respect, remembrance, and gratitude to ancestors and seek their blessings.
- Other name
- Sarva Pitru Amavasya
- Date in 2026
- Saturday, October 10
- Pitru Paksha significance
- Mahalaya Amavasya marks its concluding day.
- Tarpan hand area
- Pitru Tirtha, generally near the base of the thumb.
- Common offerings
- Water, often with black sesame seeds, accompanied by prayers.
- Additional observance
- It also marks the beginning of Shardiya Navratri.