Pitru Paksha 2026: Mahalaya Shraddha Rituals and Pitr Paksha Puja Guide

Pitru Paksha Shraddha, Mahalaya Shraddha, Pitr Paksha Puja 2026

Pitru (Pitrus) refers to late ancestors from one’s lineage, existing in soul form. Offering tarpans (water offerings with mantras) and shraddhas (in the form of Homam for Pitrs or offerings with specified mantras) can invoke their blessings. When Pitrs are pleased, the deities—Vasus (prosperity), Rudras (shelter and courage), and Aadityas (well-being)—are also pleased. There will be no scarcity of essential resources for those who honor their Pitrs correctly.

Pitru Paksha 2026 / Shradh 2026: Dates from 26 September to 10 October 2026

Pitrus should be honored monthly on Amaavasya day, annually on the tithi of their passing, and especially during Mahalaya Paksha. Honoring Pitrs during Pitru Paksha grants merits beyond human understanding. Pitru Paksha is considered even more significant than the annual Shraadh of parents. Do’s and Don’ts of Pitru Paksha / Shraadh

Pitru Paksha (Purnima Shraddha) begins on September 26, 2026, and is an important period for honoring ancestors. During this time, Pitrus are believed to visit their descendants’ homes, with divine consent, to bless those who respect them. Prayers Offering for Moksha of your Ancestors

Shradh Tithi List 2026

Purnima Shraddha: September 26, 2026 (Saturday)
Pratipada Shraddha: September 27, 2026 (Sunday)
Dwitiya Shraddha: September 28, 2026 (Monday)
Tritiya Shraddha: September 29, 2026 (Tuesday)
Chaturthi & Maha Bharani / Panchami Shraddha: September 30, 2026 (Wednesday)
Panchami Shraddha: October 1, 2026 (Thursday)
Shashthi Shraddha: October 2, 2026 (Friday)
Saptami Shraddha: October 3, 2026 (Saturday)
Ashtami Shraddha: October 4, 2026 (Sunday)
Navami Shraddha: October 5, 2026 (Monday)
Dashami Shraddha: October 6, 2026 (Tuesday)
Ekadashi Shraddha: October 7, 2026 (Wednesday)
Dwadashi & Magha Shraddha: October 7, 2026 (Wednesday)
Trayodashi Shraddha: October 8, 2026 (Thursday)
Chaturdashi Shraddha: October 9, 2026 (Friday)
Sarva Pitru Amavasya: October 10, 2026 (Saturday)

Austerities for Pitru Paksha 2026 (for those with deceased parents):

1) Avoid consuming non-vegetarian food (for non-vegetarians).

2) Avoid onions, garlic, outside food, processed foods, and drumstick vegetables (for vegetarians).

3) Refrain from shaving during the entire fortnight until Mahalaya Amavasya, if possible.

4) Perform shraddha on the tithi of the ancestor’s death or offer “anna dhaanam” (food donation) to the needy or priests. Avoid shaving on this day.

5) Abstain from sexual interactions during the Pitru Paksha fortnight as a sign of respect to the ancestors.

6) Recite Garuda Purana, Nachiketa’s story from the Upanishads, and the Gangaa Avatarana episode from Shrimad Valmiki Ramayana. These texts bring joy to Pitrus and ensure their blessings.

7) Main Donations ‘Mahadaan’ during Pitru Paksha

Shani Remedies to Remove Pitru Dosha Planetary Defects and Diseases from Life

Prayers Offering for Moksha of your Ancestors

Main Donations Pitru Paksha 2026 / Shradh 2026

Do’s and Don’ts of Shradha 2026

In-Depth Knowledge of Shradhkarma