Pitru Paksha 2023: Date, Timings, Significance, Rituals of Shradh

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Pitru Paksha

Pitru Paksha 2023: During this annual period, it is believed that the spirits of our ancestors visit their earthly relatives to receive gifts, offerings of food and water. It is a profoundly significant time of the year when we remember and honor our departed family members. Pitru Paksha spans sixteen days and involves performing important rituals like Pind Daan, Shradh, and Pitru Tarpan. Pitru Paksha provides sustenance and remembrance to our ancestors and the departed souls each year. Here are some critical insights into this period. 

 

Pitru Paksha 2023 Dates:

The Pratipada Tithi commences on September 29, 2023, at 03:26 PM and concludes on September 30, 2023, at 12:21 PM.

 

Timings for Pitru Paksha Rituals:

    1. Kutup Muhurta: On September 29, from 11:47 PM to 12:35 AM (Duration: 48 minutes).
    2. Rohin Muhurta: On September 29, from 12:45 PM to 01:23 PM (Duration: 48 minutes).
    3. Afternoon Time: September 29, from 01:23 PM to 03:46 PM (Duration: 2 hours 23 minutes)

 

Dates of Shraddha in Pitru Paksha (Pitru Paksha Tithi)

September 29 2023Friday Purnima Shraddha
September 30 2023Saturday Dwitiya Shraddha
October 1 2023Sunday Tritiya Shraddha
October 2 2023Monday Chaturthi Shraddha
October 3 2023Tuesday Panchami Shraddha
October 4 2023Wednesday Shashthi Shraddha
October 5 2023Thursday Saptami Shraddha
October 6 2023Friday Ashtami Shraddha
October 7 2023Saturday Navami Shraddha
October 8 2023Sunday Dashami Shraddha
October 9 2023Monday Ekadashi Shraddha
October 10 2023Tuesday Magha Shraddha
October 11 2023Wednesday Dwadash Shraddha
October 12 2023Thursday Trayodashi Shraddha
October 13 2023Friday Chaturdashi Shraddha
October 14 2023SaturdaySarva Pitru Amavasya

 

 

Significance:

During Pitru Paksha, individuals offer food, water, and various gifts to honor their departed ancestors, often through the intermediaries of priests and Brahmins. Many also make pilgrimages to the sacred Ganges River to conduct Tarpan, Shradh, and Pind Daan ceremonies. Additionally, extending invitations to Brahmins to their homes is customary, presenting them with pure and simple food, clothing, and Dakshina (monetary offerings) as a mark of respect and devotion.


Rituals of Shradh:

  • Pind Daan: The family priest performs the offering of Pind (rice balls) to nourish the departed souls and grant them peace.
  • Tarpan: Water libations are offered to the ancestors to quench their thirst and provide solace.
  • Feeding the Brahmins: Offering meals to Brahmins and seeking their blessings is common during Pitru Paksha.
  • Offerings: People prepare the favorite dishes of their deceased ancestors and offer them as a gesture of remembrance.
  • Charity: Acts of charity and donations are considered auspicious during this time to accumulate positive karma.
  • Prayers: Special prayers and mantras are chanted to seek blessings for the well-being of the living and the departed souls.

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