Pitru Paksha 2026: Rituals and traditions for ancestor worship

Pitru Paksha 2026 is scheduled to begin on September 26 and conclude on October 10 with Sarvapitri Amavasya. This period is a significant time in Hinduism for expressing gratitude and reverence toward ancestors through rituals such as Shradh, Tarpan, and Pind Daan.

In Prayagraj, preparations are underway at the Triveni Sangam, where millions of devotees are expected to gather to perform rituals for the peace of their ancestors' souls. Notably, religious priests have arranged for online Pind Daan services to accommodate families living abroad who cannot travel to India.

Traditional practices during this period include 'Panchabali,' which involves offering food to five specific entities: cows, dogs, crows, deities, and ants. Devotees are encouraged to follow a sattvic lifestyle, which typically involves avoiding meat, alcohol, onion, and garlic. Other customs include donating to the needy and performing rituals during specific auspicious timings like the Kutup or Rohina muhurta. Many families also observe restrictions on certain activities, such as cutting hair or nails, and avoid major celebratory events like weddings during this period.