What is Maha Bharani and why is it special in Pitrupaksha 2026?

Maha Bharani is the day within Pitrupaksha when the Bharani Nakshatra coincides with the lunar tithi. In 2026, this falls on September 29. Bharani is the Nakshatra governed by Yama, the deity of death and dharma, making Maha Bharani a day of exceptional power for ancestral rites. Pind Daan performed on Maha Bharani is described as particularly potent for recently deceased parents and for all ancestors whose specific death tithi is uncertain.