Pitru Paksha Dates 2026: Complete Calendar, Rituals, Dos and Don’ts

Pitru Paksha, also known as Shraddha Paksha, is a sacred 16-day period in the Hindu lunar calendar dedicated to honoring one’s ancestors. It usually falls in the lunar month of Bhadrapada, corresponding to September–October in the Gregorian calendar. This period begins on the full moon day (Purnima) and concludes on the new moon day (Amavasya), aligning with the second fortnight (Krishna Paksha) of the lunar month.

The word Shraddha means “giving respect” or “offering with faith.” During Pitru Paksha, families perform rituals for their Pitars (departed ancestors) to express gratitude, seek their blessings, and ensure their peace and well-being in the afterlife. It is believed that sincere offerings made during this time help release ancestral obligations and restore harmony within the family lineage.

Pitru Paksha Dates 2026 (26 September – 10 October)

Below are the Pitru Paksha dates for 2026. This section lists only the dates, as traditionally observed.

Day 1 – Purnima:26 September 2026 (Saturday) – Full Moon, Lunar EclipseThe beginning of Pitru Paksha.

Day 2 – Pratipada:27 September 2026

Day 3 – Dwitiya:28 September 2026

Day 4 – Tritiya:29 September 2026

Day 5 – Chaturthi:30 September 2026

Day 6 – Panchami:1 October 2026

Day 7 – Shashthi:1 October 2026

Day 8 – Saptami:2 October 2026

Day 9 – Ashtami:3 October 2026

Day 10 – Navami:4 October 2026

Day 11 – Dashami:5 October 2026

Day 12 – Ekadashi:6 October 2026

Day 13 – Dwadashi:7 October 2026

Day 14 – Trayodashi:8 October 2026

Day 15 – Chaturdashi:9 October 2026

Day 16 – Sarva Pitra Amavasya:10 October 2026 (Saturday) – New Moon, Solar EclipseThis is the concluding and most significant day of Pitru Paksha.

Importance of Pitru Paksha: The Story of Karna

One of the most well-known stories associated with the origin of Pitru Paksha comes from the Mahabharata and involves Karna, a legendary warrior known for his generosity.

According to the story, after Karna’s death, he was welcomed into heaven. However, instead of food, he was offered only gold and jewels. When Karna questioned this, the gods explained that although he had been extremely charitable during his lifetime, he had failed to offer food to his ancestors. As a result, his ancestors had not received nourishment.

Karna was then granted 15 days to return to Earth to perform offerings for his forefathers. During this period, he fed the ancestors with devotion, which is believed to have initiated the tradition of performing Shraddha rituals during Pitru Paksha. This story highlights the importance of remembering and honoring ancestors, not just through material charity, but through ritual offerings made with faith.

Why Offerings Are Made to Fire and Crows

Role of Agni (Fire)

An ancient legend explains the central role of Agni, the Fire God, in Pitru Paksha rituals. The ancestors once approached Lord Brahma with concerns about whether the food offerings made on Earth were actually reaching them. Brahma advised them to approach Agni.

Agni declared that all offerings meant for ancestors should first be offered to him through sacred fire. He would then act as a divine messenger, ensuring that the offerings reached the Pitars. Since then, Hawan and fire offerings have been an essential part of Shraddha rituals, symbolizing the sacred connection between the living and the departed.

Significance of Crows

Crows are regarded as sacred during Pitru Paksha and are considered messengers between the physical and spiritual worlds. They are closely associated with Yama, the god of death and afterlife. Feeding crows is believed to signify that the ancestors have accepted the offerings.

A fascinating story linked to crows is that of Kaka Bhusandi, a wise and enlightened crow described in ancient scriptures. He is believed to have lived through multiple ages, witnessing the cycles of creation and destruction, symbolizing timeless wisdom and spiritual continuity.

Recommended Practices During Pitru Paksha

During Pitru Paksha, certain practices are traditionally observed to honor ancestors and purify one’s karmic ties.

1. Holy Bath (Snan)

Taking a ritual bath in sacred rivers such as the Ganga or other holy water bodies is believed to purify both body and soul and benefit ancestral spirits.

2. Tarpan (Offering Water)

Tarpan involves offering water to the ancestors with reverence. It can be performed at home or near sacred rivers and is considered essential for ancestral peace.

3. Pind Daan

Pind Daan involves offering rice balls mixed with sesame seeds, barley, and water. Performing Pind Daan at holy places such as Badrinath is considered especially auspicious.

4. Feeding Crows, Cows, and Other Animals

Feeding crows is believed to directly benefit ancestors. Feeding cows, dogs, and other animals is also encouraged as an act of compassion and merit.

5. Brahman Bhoj

Hosting a meal for Brahmins symbolizes feeding the ancestors through learned representatives and is considered one of the most sacred acts during Pitru Paksha.

Dos and Don’ts During Pitru Paksha

Dos

•  Perform Shraddha rituals with sincerity and devotion

•  Prepare simple, vegetarian, sattvic food

•  Donate food, clothes, or money to the needy

•  Invite Brahmins for Brahman Bhoj 

• Feed crows, cows, and animals

Don’ts

•  Avoid starting new ventures or projects

•  Refrain from weddings and celebrations

• Avoid buying new clothes or jewelry 

• Do not consume non-vegetarian food

•  Maintain simplicity and discipline

Performing Hawan and Shraddha Rituals

For families unable to perform rituals themselves or travel to sacred locations, Condolence Tours provides Shraddha and Hawan services both virtually and in person in Uttarakhand. These services are conducted following traditional Vedic procedures, allowing individuals to participate from anywhere while ensuring rituals are performed with authenticity and care.