Pitru Paksha niyam
In the 16 days of Pitru Paksha (Shraddh), tarpan, shraddh and daan are done for the ancestors. In these days, auspicious work like weddings, griha pravesh and new purchases, and tamasic food, are avoided.
✅ What to do
- Do shraddh and tarpan on your ancestor's tithi; if you do not remember the tithi, on Sarva Pitru Amavasya.
- Do the shraddh at midday (kutup kaal).
- Set aside food for the cow, crow, dog and ants (panchbali).
- Give food and daan to a Brahmin or someone in need.
- Eat sattvik food.
❌ What not to do
- Do not hold weddings, engagements, griha pravesh or mundan.
- Avoid buying new clothes, jewellery, a vehicle or a house.
- Avoid onion, garlic, meat and alcohol.
- Do not use iron utensils in the shraddh meal.
- Do not insult anyone, especially the elderly.
These niyam (rules) are based on tradition and belief; they can differ between regions and families.
Frequently asked questions
Why is food given to crows in Pitru Paksha?
It is believed that food reaches the ancestors through the crow.
What if you do not remember the shraddh tithi?
The shraddh of all ancestors can be done on Sarva Pitru Amavasya (the last day of Pitru Paksha).