Hindus across the world are preparing for Shradh 2023, also known as Mahalaya Paksha or Pitru Paksha. This auspicious period occurs in the last two weeks of the Indian month of Bhadrapada, also known as Bhadon. During Pitru Paksha, which starts on September 29 and concludes on October 14, 2023, followers of the Sanatan Dharma remember and pay homage to their ancestors or their departed loved ones.
Pitru Paksha spans fifteen days, during which spiritual ceremonies and food offerings are made to the departed. These 15 days hold immense religious significance for Hindus. It is during these days that people remember their ancestors, offer them food and water through priests or brahmins, marking the most sacred time of the year. This period is also known as Shraddh Paksha, commencing on Bhadrapada Purnima Tithi, or September 29, 2023, according to the Drik Panchang.
The significance of Shradh stems from the story of Karn from the Mahabharata. After Karn’s demise in the Mahabharata war, it is believed that he was denied regular meals in heaven and was offered wealth and jewels instead. When he questioned Lord Indra, the ruler of heaven, about this, Karn was informed of the reason, that he hadn’t provided food to his ancestors while he was alive. Lord Indra granted Karn permission to return to Earth for 15 days to feed his forefathers, even though Karn was initially unaware of his ancestors.
The Shradh 2023 starts on Friday, September 29. It begins with Purnima Shraddha (full moon) and concludes with Pratipada Shraddha. Bhadrapada Purnima lasts until 3:26 PM on September 29, after which the Ashwin month’s Krishna Paksha starts, signifying the end of Pratipada Shraddha at 12:21 PM on September 30, all according to the Drik Panchang.
Shradh Paksha is seen as an opportune time when the spirits of ancestors return to the earthly realm to accept the offerings made by their descendants. During Shraddh, people perform Tarpan, Shradh, and Pind Daan rituals at an opportune time. Tarpan, intended for ancestors, involves mixing water with white flour, black sesame, barley, and kusha grass. It is believed that Tarpan satiates the souls of the departed. Brahmins are invited to perform Shradh ceremonies at home, including the offering of rice balls to honor ancestors. People also provide food, water, and other offerings to their departed ancestors through priests and brahmins. Pilgrims often visit the Ganges to perform Tarpan, Shradh, and Pind Daan rituals. They also welcome Brahmins into their homes, offering them pure, satvik clothing, food, and dakshina (monetary contributions). People observe specific days based on the Tithi (date) on which their ancestors passed away, such as Dwitiya Shraddha or Navami Shraddha, in remembrance and respect.
The conclusion of these ceremonies involves touching the feet of the Brahmins and seeking their blessings, as they are believed to act as intermediaries for the offerings to reach the ancestors.
