Pitru Paksha 2026 is observed from September 27, 2026 (Sunday) to October 10, 2026 (Saturday). This 16-day lunar period is dedicated entirely to paying homage to our ancestors (Pitrs). During this fortnight, following the Vedic rules and regulations properly becomes extremely important to ensure the peace of the departed souls.

During Pitru Paksha, Hindus strictly refrain from organising auspicious functions like engagements, marriages, child mundan, or even Griha Pravesha (housewarming), as this period is reserved solely for contemplation and reverence for the deceased. During these 15-16 days, you must pay tribute to the ancestors through Shradh and Tarpan to ask for forgiveness and blessings. If you are suffering from Pitru Dosha or the curse of the ancestors, this is the most significant time to seek redemption and free oneself from it.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pitru Paksha 2026

Since you will be paying homage to your ancestors, it is mandatory that you follow all the rituals properly. The failure to do so can lead to restlessness in the family and the accumulation of Pitru Dosha. To avoid these risks, our expert Vedic Pandits at SmartPuja can guide you through the entire process, whether you are in Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, or anywhere in India. You must be aware of certain guidelines from the beginning. Below, we discuss the essential do’s and don’ts of Pitru Paksha that you must know.

Dos of Pitru Paksha

• Perform Daan (Donation): You should donate food to the needy and Brahmins. At the same time, offering food to animals like cows, dogs, and specifically crows is highly advisable. It is believed that crows are messengers of Lord Yama, and feeding them ensures the food reaches our ancestors.
• Pind Daan Rituals: The Pind Daan and Tarpan must generally be performed by the eldest son of the deceased soul according to the customs and rituals guided by an experienced Pandit for Pitru Paksha.
• Maintain Celibacy: The person performing the Shradh rituals, and preferably the entire family, should try to maintain celibacy and purity of thought during this time.
• Use Black Sesame: The Pitru Paksha Puja should be performed using black sesame seeds (Til), Kusha grass, and water. These elements are considered dear to the ancestors.
• Attire: While performing the Puja, men are often required to wear a white cotton dhoti and remain bare-chested to maintain the sanctity of the ritual.
• Dietary Discipline: In many traditions, it is said that the person performing the Pitru Paksha puja must eat only one meal a day and avoid eating after sunset.

Don’ts of Pitru Paksha

• Avoid Tamasic Food: It is strictly advisable to refrain from consuming any non-vegetarian food. You must also avoid consuming certain ingredients like garlic, onions, chana, black mustard, masoor dal, and stale food.
• Avoid Addictions: You must not consume paan, alcohol, tobacco, or cigarettes. It is also advisable to stay away from supari (betel nut) during these holy days.
• No Grooming: During these 15 days, the person performing the rites should not go for a haircut, shave their beard, or cut their nails.
• No Auspicious Beginnings: No auspicious functions (Mangalik Karya) like weddings or engagements should be performed during this time.
• Avoid New Purchases: You should avoid buying new items that are for luxury or comfort, such as new clothes, vehicles, jewelry, or property.
• Material Restrictions: You must refrain from using iron utensils for cooking or serving food during the Shradh rituals; instead, use copper, brass, or silver.

Conclusion

Following the rules and regulations during Pitru Paksha 2026 is crucial to ensure your ancestors are appeased and to protect your lineage from Pitru Dosha. The expert Pandits at SmartPuja are well-versed in the Vedic scriptures and provide all necessary Puja services to help you perform Tarpan and Pind Daan correctly. Our Pandits will ensure the Puja is conducted with due diligence and without any mistakes. To book a Pandit, contact us at 080-61160400.