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Pitru Paksha 2026: Shraddh Dates, Tithi & Vidhi
July 18, 2026
Every year, the Pitru Paksha Shraddh dates mark a sacred 16-day period when Hindus honour their departed ancestors (pitrs) through shraddh, tarpan and pind daan. Pitru Paksha 2026 runs from Saturday, 26 September 2026 to Saturday, 10 October 2026, concluding with Sarva Pitru Amavasya (Mahalaya Amavasya). Falling in the Krishna Paksha of the Ashwin month, this period is dedicated entirely to expressing gratitude and seeking blessings from our forefathers.
Pitru Paksha 2026 Shraddh Dates and Tithi
Shraddh is performed on the tithi corresponding to the day an ancestor passed away. Here are the key Pitru Paksha 2026 shraddh dates with their tithis.
| Shraddh Tithi | Date 2026 |
|---|---|
| Purnima & Pratipada Shraddh | Saturday, 26 September 2026 |
| Dwitiya Shraddh | Sunday, 27 September 2026 |
| Tritiya Shraddh | Monday, 28 September 2026 |
| Panchami / Chaturthi Shraddh | 29–30 September 2026 |
| Ashtami Shraddh | Around 3 October 2026 |
| Navami (Matri) Shraddh | Around 4 October 2026 |
| Ekadashi Shraddh | Around 6 October 2026 |
| Dwadashi / Trayodashi Shraddh | 7–8 October 2026 |
| Sarva Pitru Amavasya (Mahalaya) | Saturday, 10 October 2026 |
Tithi start and end times shift each day, so always confirm the exact shraddh tithi and the Kutup/Rohina muhurat for tarpan with a current panchang before performing the rituals.
Significance of Pitru Paksha and Shraddh
The significance of the Pitru Paksha shraddh dates is rooted in the belief that during this fortnight, the souls of ancestors descend closer to the earthly realm. By offering food, water and prayers, descendants help their pitrs attain peace and, in turn, receive blessings of prosperity, health and family harmony. Neglecting these duties is traditionally associated with pitra dosh, an ancestral affliction believed to obstruct progress and well-being.
If you suspect ancestral obstacles in your family, our guide on pitra dosh remedies explains traditional measures to seek relief and blessings.
Key Rituals of Pitru Paksha
- Shraddh: Ritual offering of food and prayers on the ancestor’s tithi
- Tarpan: Offering water mixed with black sesame and kusha grass to the pitrs
- Pind Daan: Offering rice balls (pind) for the peace of departed souls
- Brahmin Bhoj & Daan: Feeding Brahmins and the needy, and giving charity
Pitru Paksha Shraddh Vidhi
Follow this traditional shraddh vidhi during Pitru Paksha 2026.
| Step | Ritual |
|---|---|
| 1 | Bathe early and wear clean clothes; perform the ritual around midday (aparahna kaal) |
| 2 | Invoke the ancestors and offer tarpan with water, black til and kusha grass |
| 3 | Prepare satvik food, including the departed’s favourite dishes, and offer pind daan |
| 4 | Offer a portion of food to cows, crows and dogs (considered messengers of the pitrs) |
| 5 | Feed Brahmins or the needy and give daan in the ancestors’ name |
| 6 | Pray for the peace of departed souls and seek their blessings |
A clean, sanctified pooja thali helps you conduct the tarpan and shraddh rituals with the required purity. For a complete overview of the year’s observances, see our Hindu festival calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Pitru Paksha in 2026?
Pitru Paksha 2026 runs from Saturday, 26 September to Saturday, 10 October 2026, ending on Sarva Pitru Amavasya.
How do I know which day to perform shraddh?
Shraddh is performed on the tithi (lunar day) matching the day the ancestor passed away. If unknown, Sarva Pitru Amavasya on 10 October 2026 is observed for all ancestors.
What is tarpan in Pitru Paksha?
Tarpan is the offering of water mixed with black sesame and kusha grass to the ancestors, performed to bring peace to their souls.
What is the significance of Sarva Pitru Amavasya?
It is the concluding day when shraddh can be performed for all ancestors, especially those whose tithi is unknown or missed during the fortnight.
Why is Pitru Paksha considered important?
It is a time to honour ancestors, seek their blessings for prosperity and harmony, and traditionally to relieve pitra dosh in the family.
Observe Pitru Paksha 2026 with reverence. Explore our handcrafted Pooja Thali collection to prepare a pure, complete setup for shraddh and tarpan, honouring your ancestors with devotion.
