Mahalaya Pitru Paksha Start 2026

Pitru Paksha Begins: Fifteen Days to Remember Our Ancestors

Mahalaya Pitru Paksha begins on Bhadrapada Bahula Padyami and runs for fifteen days until Bhadrapada Amavasya, known as Mahalaya Amavasya. During this fortnight families remember their ancestors and offer tarpanam, shraddham and food in their name. In Telugu homes it is also called Mahalaya Paksham or Peddala Paksham.

The Puranic Background

A well-known story says that when the generous Karna reached heaven, he was offered gold and jewels instead of food. He learned that although he had given away much in life, he had never offered food and water to his ancestors. With Yama's permission he returned to earth for fifteen days to perform tarpanam and feed people, and this period became Pitru Paksha. It is believed that during this fortnight the ancestors await the offerings of their descendants.

What to Do During Pitru Paksha

• Perform the Mahalaya shraddham on the tithi on which the ancestor passed away.
• Offer tarpanam with sesame seeds, darbha grass and water.
• Feed Brahmins and the poor, and give clothes and dakshina.
• Feed crows, cows and dogs; such offerings are believed to reach the ancestors.
• If the tithi is not known, perform the shraddham on Mahalaya Amavasya for all ancestors.

Key Days and Customs

Bahula Navami in this fortnight is Avidhava Navami, when shraddham is done for women who passed away as sumangalis. The final day, Mahalaya Amavasya, is the most important. Many families avoid starting new auspicious events such as weddings or griha pravesham during these days, and those performing shraddham keep to simple satvik food. Practices differ by region and family, so it is best to follow the guidance of your family purohit.

Significance

We stand where we are because of the effort and sacrifice of those before us. Pitru Paksha is the time to express that gratitude, and elders believe that satisfied ancestors bless the family with long life, health and children.

May all our ancestors rest in peace and their blessings remain with our families.