Pitru Paksha 2026: Dates, Tarpan Vidhi, & Significance |…
Pitru Paksha 2026: Day-wise Shradh Dates, Tarpan Vidhi & Significance
Pitru Paksha (The Fortnight of the Ancestors) is a sacred 16-day period in the Hindu calendar dedicated to paying homage to our forefathers. It is believed that during this time, the souls of our ancestors descend from Pitri Loka to Earth to bless their lineage.
Performing Tarpan and Shradh during this time releases our ancestors from any bondage and resolves Pitru Dosha in the horoscope.
📅 Day-wise Pitru Paksha 2026 Shradh Dates
If you are unsure about your ancestor’s exact tithi, our Pandit can check your family Shradh date based on the death anniversary. Below is the complete calendar:
| Shradh Tithi | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| Purnima Shradh | September 26, 2026 | Saturday |
| Pratipada Shradh | September 27, 2026 | Sunday |
| Dwitiya Shradh | September 28, 2026 | Monday |
| Tritiya Shradh | September 29, 2026 | Tuesday |
| Chaturthi Shradh | September 30, 2026 | Wednesday |
| Panchami Shradh | October 1, 2026 | Thursday |
| Shashthi Shradh | October 2, 2026 | Friday |
| Saptami Shradh | October 3, 2026 | Saturday |
| Ashtami Shradh | October 4, 2026 | Sunday |
| Navami Shradh (Matra Navami) | October 5, 2026 | Monday |
| Dashami Shradh | October 6, 2026 | Tuesday |
| Ekadashi Shradh | October 7, 2026 | Wednesday |
| Dwadashi / Trayodashi Shradh | October 8, 2026 | Thursday |
| Chaturdashi Shradh | October 9, 2026 | Friday |
| Sarvapitri / Mahalaya Amavasya | October 10, 2026 | Saturday |
Who Should Perform Shradh?
The ritual of Shradh is primarily performed by the eldest son of the family. However, in his absence, other family members can step in:
- Sons: The eldest son is the primary performer. If he is unavailable, younger sons can perform the rites.
- Daughters: In the absence of male heirs, daughters or the wife can perform the Shradh.
- Grandsons: Grandsons can perform Shradh for their grandfathers.
- Pitru Dosha: Anyone suffering from Pitru Dosha in their horoscope should perform this puja to appease ancestors and remove obstacles from life.
Tarpan Vidhi: Step-by-Step Guide
Tarpan is the act of offering water mixed with sesame seeds to the ancestors to satisfy their thirst and hunger. Ideally, this should be performed on the banks of holy rivers like the Ganga, but it can also be performed at home under the guidance of a Pandit.
- Direction: Always face South while performing Pitru Tarpan.
- Key Ingredients: Black Sesame (Til), Barley (Jau), Kusha Grass, White Flowers, and Water.
- The Ritual: Wear a ring made of Kusha grass. Offer water through the space between the thumb and forefinger (Pitru Teerth).
Pitru Paksha 2026 Dos and Don’ts
To ensure your ancestors accept your offerings, follow these strict guidelines:
- Perform Tarpan daily with black sesame and water.
- Feed Brahmins, cows, crows, and dogs.
- Maintain celibacy and a peaceful mind.
- Cook food in silver or copper vessels if possible.
- Avoid consuming non-veg, alcohol, garlic, and onions.
- Do not start new ventures, buy property, or gold.
- Avoid shaving or cutting hair/nails during this period.
- Do not use iron or steel vessels for puja.
Honor Your Ancestors with SmartPuja
Don’t let distance or lack of knowledge stop you from performing your duties. Book experienced Pandits for Pitru Paksha Puja at your home or preferred location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pitru Paksha 2026 begins on September 26 (Saturday) with Purnima Shradh.
Sarvapitri Amavasya, the last day of Pitru Paksha 2026 and the most important date for Shradh, falls on October 10, 2026.
Yes, while riverside rituals are preferred, Tarpan can be performed at home under the guidance of a knowledgeable Pandit using a copper vessel and proper Samagri.
The eldest son usually performs the Shradh. However, if there is no son, other male relatives or even daughters can perform the rituals to appease the ancestors.
