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Pitru Paksha 2026: Dates, Rituals, Dos And Don’ts Explained
Pitru Paksha is a 16-day Hindu period for remembering and honouring ancestors.
In 2026, it starts with Purnima Shraddha on September 26.
The main Shraddha period begins on September 27.
It ends on October 10 with Sarva Pitru Amavasya.
Families may offer water, black sesame and kusha during Tarpan rituals.
They may also perform Shraddha or Pind Daan on the lunar date linked to an ancestor’s death.
Many people feed Brahmins, animals and birds and give charity.
Customs differ, so families generally follow their own traditions or seek guidance from a knowledgeable priest.
Pitru Paksha 2026 begins with Purnima Shraddha on September 26.
The main Shraddha period starts on September 27 with Pratipada Shraddha.
The observance concludes on October 10 with Sarva Pitru Amavasya, also called Mahalaya Amavasya.
Traditional practices include Tarpan, Shraddha, Pind Daan, food offerings, charity and a simple lifestyle.
Families may avoid alcohol, meat, major celebrations, new beginnings, haircuts and other activities, depending on custom.
- Who
- Hindu families and devotees observing traditional ancestor-honouring practices.
- What
- Pitru Paksha 2026, a period for Shraddha, Tarpan, Pind Daan, food offerings and charity.
- Where
- The observance is followed according to regional, community and family traditions; no specific location is stated.
- When
- September 26 through October 10, 2026; the main Shraddha period begins September 27.
- Why
- To remember and honour ancestors and express gratitude through traditional rituals and charitable acts.
Key facts
- Start date
- September 26, 2026, with Purnima Shraddha
- Main period begins
- September 27, 2026, with Pratipada Shraddha
- End date
- October 10, 2026, with Sarva Pitru Amavasya
- Also known as
- Pitru Paksha is also called Shradh Paksha; Sarva Pitru Amavasya is also called Mahalaya Amavasya
- Key rituals
- Tarpan, Shraddha and Pind Daan
- Traditional offerings
- Food may be offered to Brahmins, animals and birds, along with donations
- Custom differences
- Practices vary across regions, communities and family traditions
Sources
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