• September 26, 2025 | 02:35
  • 11 Sep,2025

Pitru Paksha 2025: How and Why We Perform Shraddha to Honor Our Departed Ancestors

Pitru Paksha 2025: How and Why We Perform Shraddha to Honor Our Departed Ancestors

Step-by-Step Guide to Performing Shraddha

Pitru Paksha, observed during the lunar fortnight in the Hindu calendar, holds a profound spiritual significance. In 2025, this sacred period will fall from 7th to 21st September 2025, giving devotees an opportunity to honor and express gratitude to their ancestors. But what exactly is Pitru Paksha, and why is the Shraddha ritual so deeply cherished?


What is Pitru Paksha?

Pitru Paksha is a 16-lunar day period dedicated to remembering and paying homage to our forefathers. It is believed that during these days, the spirits of ancestors descend to the earthly plane, seeking love, blessings, and respect from their descendants. The term "Pitru" refers to "forefathers," and "Paksha" means "fortnight." This observance is deeply rooted in ancient Hindu scriptures, emphasizing the importance of filial piety and family lineage.


 Also Read | "Unlock Abundance: What to Buy on Akshaya Tritiya 2025 Based on Your Core Number"


The Significance of Performing Shraddha


Shraddha is the ritual performed to express reverence and gratitude toward deceased ancestors. The purpose goes beyond mere tradition — it is a spiritual act intended to ensure peace for the departed souls. Hindus believe that performing Shraddha creates a positive karmic connection, helping ancestors find peace in their afterlife while providing spiritual upliftment for the living.


Steps Involved in Shraddha

  • Tarpan (Water Offering): The ceremony begins with offering water mixed with sesame seeds and black til to the departed souls. This is called 'Tarpan' and is believed to quench their thirst and purify their spirits.
  • Pind Daan (Offering Rice Balls): Rice balls (Pindas) are offered to symbolize the material body and to nourish the departed souls spiritually.
  • Feeding Brahmins and Poor: Part of the ritual involves feeding Brahmins or the needy, which is considered equivalent to serving the ancestors directly. It is said to bring blessings and positive energy.
  • Recitation of Mantras: Sacred hymns and mantras are chanted, invoking peace and prosperity for both the departed souls and the family.


 Also Read | "The Spiritual Significance of Pind Daan and Tarpan in Honoring Ancestral Legacy"


Why is Shraddha Important?

The practice of Shraddha has both spiritual and emotional significance. It strengthens the bond between generations, offering an opportunity for the living to reflect on their roots and cultural values. Spiritually, it is believed to help the ancestors attain 'moksha' (liberation from the cycle of life and death).  Moreover, performing Shraddha brings peace of mind to the practitioner and promotes a harmonious life, as it fulfills a sacred duty toward one’s lineage. It is said that neglecting this duty may create spiritual imbalance and disturbances in the family.


Pitru Paksha Dates and Duration in 2025

In 2025, Pitru Paksha is observed from 7th to 21st September 2025. During these 16 days, devotees perform Shraddha ceremonies especially on Amavasya (new moon day), known as Sarvapitri Amavasya, which is considered the most auspicious day.


Dos and Don’ts During Pitru Paksha

Do's

  • Perform rituals with utmost devotion and purity.
  • Offer food items that your ancestors liked.
  • Visit sacred riverbanks or temples, especially Gaya and Haridwar, for Pind Daan.


Don’ts

  • Avoid celebrations, marriages, or large festivities during this period.
  • Do not consume non-vegetarian food on these days.


 Also Read | "Hanuman Jayanti 2025: Puja Time & Vrat Rules"


Conclusion

Pitru Paksha is not merely a ritual but a sacred tradition that connects us to our ancestry. Performing Shraddha during this period is a way to express gratitude, seek blessings, and maintain spiritual harmony within the family. As we observe Pitru Paksha in 2025, let us remember our forefathers with respect and ensure their souls attain peace.

At ExploreRealNews.com, we aim to bring you deeper insights into cultural traditions, festivals, and spiritual practices that shape our daily lives. With Pitru Paksha 2025 approaching, many of our readers are curious about the significance of this sacred period and the rituals performed to honor departed ancestors.

Pitru Paksha is more than just a ritual; it is a time for reflection, gratitude, and spiritual connection with our forefathers. In India, millions of families observe Shraddha ceremonies, offering prayers, food, and water to departed souls, believing these acts bring peace to the ancestors and blessings to the living.

Understanding these customs helps us appreciate our cultural heritage, maintain family bonds, and connect with spiritual wisdom passed down through generations. Through this article, ExploreRealNews.com guides you step by step through the meaning of Pitru Paksha, the significance of Shraddha, and how to observe these traditions with devotion and respect in 2025.

Stay tuned for more Astrology updatesFollow us on facebookInstagramLinkedln and twitter for Astrology tips that matter to you.