What are the dates of Pitru Paksha 2025?

Pitru Paksha 2025 begins on Sunday, 7 September 2025 and ends on Sunday, 21 September 2025.

Why is Pitru Paksha observed?

Pitru Paksha is observed to honor ancestors, perform Shraddha, Tarpan and charity to seek their blessings and ensure peace for departed souls.

What rituals are performed during Pitru Paksha?

Common rituals include Shraddha (offering food to ancestors), Tarpan (libations of water), Pind Daan (offering rice balls) and giving charity or feeding the needy.

Can new ventures be started during Pitru Paksha?

Traditionally, starting new ventures, marriages or major purchases is avoided during Pitru Paksha. People focus on rituals and remembrance instead.

How can I perform Pitru Paksha rituals at home?

You can offer water and simple sattvik food with prayers to your ancestors, chant mantras, or invite a priest for Shraddha at home if visiting a holy site is not possible.

Pitru Paksha 2025: Dates, Rituals & Significance (7–21 September)

AstroSage AI

16 Sep, 2025

Introduction

Pitru Paksha (also called Shraddha Paksha) is a 16-day period in the Hindu calendar dedicated to honoring one’s ancestors. In 2025, Pitru Paksha will begin on Sunday, 7 September 2025 and end on Sunday, 21 September 2025. During this time, Hindus perform Shraddha, Tarpan, Pind Daan and charity to express gratitude and seek blessings from departed souls. Knowing the exact dates and rituals ensures you observe this sacred fortnight correctly.

Pitru Paksha 2025: Dates, Rituals & Significance (7–21 September)

Pitru Paksha 2025 Dates & Timings

Start Date: Sunday, 7 September 2025
End Date: Sunday, 21 September 2025
This period falls in the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the Moon) of the Bhadrapada month. Each day is linked to a specific Tithi (lunar day) and families choose the Tithi corresponding to their ancestors for performing Shraddha.

Spiritual Significance

Hindu scriptures state that during Pitru Paksha, the Pitrs (ancestral souls) visit the Earth to bless their descendants. Performing Shraddha and feeding the poor are believed to grant peace to ancestors and bring prosperity to the family. The fortnight is also considered ideal for introspection, gratitude and giving up negative habits.

Rituals & Observances

Shraddha: Offering cooked food, water and prayers to ancestors.
Tarpan: Ritual libations offered on riverbanks or at home.
Pind Daan: Offering rice balls (pinds) to departed souls.
Charity & Feeding: Donating food, clothes or money to Brahmins and the needy.
Avoid starting new ventures or buying luxury items during this period as per tradition.

Scientific & Cultural Perspective

While rooted in faith, Pitru Paksha also reflects the Indian ethos of remembering lineage and practicing generosity. Community feasts, riverbank gatherings and temple rituals foster unity and social welfare.

Tips for Observing Pitru Paksha 2025

Mark the exact dates and your ancestor’s Tithi in advance.
Prepare sattvik (pure) food without onion or garlic for Shraddha.
Maintain cleanliness at home and at the ritual site.
Offer water daily with prayers if you cannot perform full rituals.

Conclusion

Pitru Paksha 2025 (7–21 September) is a spiritually charged time to honor and remember ancestors. Observing the rituals with devotion and generosity not only gives peace to departed souls but also brings blessings, harmony and success to the family.