Pitru Paksha 2023: Dos and Don’ts for Honoring Ancestors in 15-Day Ritual

Pitru Paksha 2023: Dos and Don’ts for Honoring Ancestors in 15-Day Ritual

Pitru Paksha, also known as Shradh or Shraddh, is an important 15-day observance dedicated to honoring deceased ancestors. This year, Pitru Paksha will commence on September 29, 2023, and conclude on October 14, 2023, on the auspicious occasion of Amavasya Tithi of Krishna Paksha or Sarva Pitru Amavasya.

During this period, it is customary for the eldest son of the deceased to perform the trapan ritual, making offerings to the ancestors believed to reside in pitrulok, the realm between Heaven and Earth.

To ensure a proper observance of Pitru Paksha, it is essential to be aware of the dos and don’ts associated with this ritual. Here are some guidelines to follow during Pitru Paksha 2023:

Pitru Paksha 2023 Don’ts:

1. Avoid consuming non-vegetarian food: It is highly advised to abstain from consuming non-vegetarian food during this period. Additionally, ingredients such as onions, garlic, chana, jeera, black salt, black mustard, cucumbers, brinjals, and lentils like masoor dal and black urad dal should also be avoided.

2. Say no to paan, supari, tobacco, and alcohol: It is recommended to refrain from consuming paan, supari, tobacco, and alcohol during Pitru Paksha.

3. Avoid organizing auspicious functions: It is considered inauspicious to organize functions such as engagement (roka) or marriage (vivah) ceremonies, griha pravesh (housewarming ceremony), mundan (head tonsuring ceremony of a child), etc., during this period.

4. Limit indulgence: Avoid indulging in the purchase of new vehicles, houses, or any luxury items during Pitru Paksha.

5. Do not cut hair, shave your beard or cut nails: It is advised to avoid cutting your hair, shaving your beard, or cutting your nails during this period.

6. Avoid using iron utensils or objects: It is recommended to refrain from using iron utensils or any objects made of iron during Pitru Paksha.

Pitru Paksha 2023 Dos:

1. Offer food to the needy and animals: Extend your compassion by offering food to the needy. Additionally, feed cows, dogs, ants, and other animals.

2. Consider having one meal a day: During Pitru Paksha, it is suggested to have only one meal a day.

3. Perform pind daan: Perform the pind daan ritual, which involves offering rice and sesame seeds to the crows. It is believed that crows represent messengers of Yama, the God of death, or the deceased ancestors themselves.

4. Perform shraddh rituals: Engage in the shraddh rituals to pay homage to your ancestors and seek forgiveness.

5. Dress appropriately: Men should wear a dhoti and remain bare-chested while performing the rituals associated with Pitru Paksha.

One can ensure a respectful and meaningful observance of Pitru Paksha 2023. It is a time to honor our ancestors, seek forgiveness, and liberate ourselves from the potential curse of the ancestors. Let us embrace this sacred period with reverence and devotion.