Pitru Paksha 2025 Dates

Pitru Paksha Shraddha 2025: Dates, Procedure, and Cost

Pitru Paksha 2025 Dates:

• Start Date: September 15, 2025 (Full Moon Day)
• End Date: September 29, 2025 (Mahalaya Amavasya)

Pitru Paksha is observed over a period of 16 lunar days in the Hindu calendar, during which people pay homage to their ancestors (Pitrs) through rituals and offerings. The ritual helps to provide peace to the souls of the departed and fulfill their spiritual needs.

Procedure for Pitru Paksha Shraddha:

1. Pind Daan:
   The core ritual involves the offering of "Pind" (ball-shaped food offerings) made of rice flour, sesame seeds, and other ingredients, symbolizing the body of the deceased ancestors. This is typically performed by the eldest son or a male descendant of the family.

2. Tarpan:
   Tarpan is the act of offering water mixed with sesame seeds to ancestors. This is performed along with prayers to invoke blessings and peace for the departed souls. It is generally done with the chanting of mantras near a water source, like a river or pond.

3. Reciting Ancestor Names:
   The names of deceased family members are recited, and prayers are offered to ensure their souls find peace.

4. Food Offerings:
   A ritual meal is prepared and offered to the ancestors, symbolizing the provision of food for the souls of the departed. This meal is often shared with Brahmins or the poor as an act of charity.

5. Timing:
   It is advised to conduct these rituals in the morning or early afternoon, before the sun sets, as it is believed to be auspicious.

Variations by Region:

• South India: This region follows the rituals during the lunar month of Bhadrapada.
• North India: People in the north generally observe the rituals in the month of Ashwin.

The specific names of Pitru Paksha Shraddha ceremonies vary by region and language. In some places, it is also called Mahalaya Shraddha or Sarvapitri Amavasya.

Cost of Performing Pitru Paksha Shraddha:

• Cost of Pind Daan & Tarpan:
  The cost varies depending on location, the priest's fees, and the materials used for offerings. Typically, the cost for performing these rituals can range from ₹5,000 to ₹25,000 in India. This includes fees for a priest (purohit), the required offerings, and the food served as part of the ritual.

• Additional Expenses:
  If you choose to conduct the ceremony in a holy place like Varanasi or Haridwar, the costs could be higher, as these places have special rituals that involve more elaborate offerings.

• For a Simple Ceremony at Home:
  You may be able to perform the ritual with minimal cost, around ₹1,000 to ₹5,000, depending on your family’s tradition and the offerings provided.