When does Pitru Paksha occur each year?
Pitru Paksha falls in the second fortnight (Krishna Paksha) of the Hindu lunar month of Bhadrapada, usually corresponding to September or October in the Gregorian calendar. It begins on the Purnima (full moon day) or the day after Purnima and ends on the Amavasya (new moon day), known as Sarva Pitri Amavasya or Mahalaya Amavasya. […]
What is Pitru Paksha and why is it considered significant in Hinduism?
Pitru Paksha (“fortnight of the ancestors”) is a 16-lunar-day period in the Hindu calendar when Hindus pay homage to their ancestors (Pitrs), especially through food offerings. It’s significant because it’s believed that performing rituals like Tarpan and Shraddha during this time satisfies the souls of departed ancestors, ensuring their peace and blessings upon their descendants, […]
Are there any foods or behaviors to avoid during Pitrupaksha?
Devotees often abstain from non-vegetarian foods, alcohol, and engage in fasting, emphasizing purity and devotion.
What is the significance of Pitrupaksha in Hindu scriptures?
As per the Mahabharata, Karna, after death, was offered gold instead of food. Realizing his negligence in making ancestral offerings, he was allowed to return to Earth during Pitrupaksha to perform the necessary rites.