Matru Navami 2026: Rituals and timings for honoring female ancestors

Matru Navami, a significant day during the Pitru Paksha period, is observed on October 4, 2026. This day is dedicated to performing Shraddha, Tarpan, and Pind Daan rituals to honor deceased female ancestors, including mothers, grandmothers, and sisters.

According to religious traditions, the rituals are performed to seek the blessings of departed women for the prosperity and well-being of the family. Specific customs include using black sesame seeds and white flowers for Tarpan, which can be performed by the daughter-in-law or other women in the household. Rituals may also involve preparing Pind from rice or barley flour mixed with ghee, milk, and sugar.

The auspicious timings (Muhurat) for the rituals on October 4 include the Kutup Muhurat from 11:46 AM to 12:33 PM, the Rohin Muhurat from 12:33 PM to 1:20 PM, and the Aparahna Kaal from 1:20 PM to 3:42 PM. Traditions also suggest offering food to a Brahmani and donating cosmetics if the deceased woman was married.