In India, culture and religion play an important part in our upbringing. We not only pay respect to our living elders but pay homage to our dead ancestors as well in several ways. And
Pitru Paksha
is one of those important periods, in which we perform certain rituals that are believed to get our dead ancestors peace and moksha (also known as liberation from the cycle of death and rebirth).
It is believed that during this period, the dead ancestors visit their near and dear ones to accept the various food offerings.
ALSO READ: Pitru Paksha 2022: Foods you should never eat during Pitri Paksha/Shraddh
Starting from Bhadrapada Purnima, Pitru Paksha is a period of 16 days and ends on Mahalaya Amavasya. During this period people perform rituals like Shraddha, Tarpan and
Pind Daan
for their dead ancestors in which, food and water play an important role as they are said to satisfy their souls. This year, the Pitru Paksha starts from 29 September and ends on October 14. The
Shraddha
period is said to be extremely inauspicious in the Hindu religion, as we perform the death rites. Those who perform these rituals are often advised to observe the strict rules of Pitru Paksha and perform them in a proper manner.
Foods to avoid during Pitru Paksha
When it comes to food, there is a whole list which should be completely avoided while following the other rules. Here are some of the foods that are said to be banned during this period:
Needlessly, one should completely avoid non-vegetarian food, eggs and alcohol. However, during the Pitru Paksha, there are certain foods that the person performing these rituals must avoid such as: Chickpeas, black chana, masoor dal, black urad dal, black mustard seeds, cumin seeds, black salt, bitter gourd and cucumber, mustard greens etc. Along with these, any Tamasic food must be avoided during this period that includes - onion, garlic, and brinjals. Not just these, but there are some common foods that must be avoided like rice, wheat, chana sattu, potatoes, colocasia (arbi) and radish. It is also advised to avoid the consumption of Paan, Supari and tobacco. Also, it is extremely important to avoid consuming any stale food during this period.
What to eat during Pitru Paksha
During the Pitru Paksha, the person performing these rites should make sure to consume only the Sattvik diet, as that helps attain mental peace and spiritual growth. Eating a Tamasic or Rajasic diet hinders mental balance and spiritual growth. Make sure to consume lots of water to stay hydrated throughout the day.
ALSO READ: 5 vegetarian dishes that you can eat during Pitru Paksha (Shraadh)
Rules to follow during Pitru Paksha
As this period is considered extremely inauspicious, it is suggested by the scriptures to avoid the beginning of any new work or start any auspicious activity such as marriage, buying new items for home or for yourself, or even purchasing vehicles. One must completely avoid cutting their hair and nails during this period. What is interesting to note is that the rituals must not be performed in any iron vessel. It is suggested in the scriptures that only four types of metals are good for performing such rituals - gold, silver, bronze and copper. Any animal/stranger coming to your home must not go back hungry/thirsty and must not be disrespected. Make sure to provide enough food or water to those in need. Also, extreme measures should be taken not to hurt any individual or animal. It is also written in the scriptures that one should pay extra care towards cows, dogs, ants, crows and brahmins.
FAQs
It is believed that during this time, the ancestors visit their loved ones to accept food offerings. Certain foods are to be avoided during this period, including non-vegetarian food, eggs, alcohol, and Tamasic foods like onion and garlic. Instead, a Sattvik diet is recommended for mental peace and spiritual growth.
What food is not allowed during Pitru Paksha? ›
One of the key dietary practices during Pitru Paksha involves the avoidance of specific vegetables, such as radishes, carrots, sweet potato, turnip, beetroot, taro roots, and elephant yam. Garlic and onions are strictly forbidden during this period, and simplicity in food is encouraged.
What are the do's and don'ts of Pitru Paksha? ›
Food items such as onion, garlic, meat, egg, etc. must be avoided during this time. Similarly, one should refrain from consuming alcohol. Vastu experts say that one should avoid purchasing new clothes or shoes during Pitru Paksha.
What not to do in Pitru Paksha 2023? ›
Pitra Paksha 2023: Things to avoid doing during Shraddh
Avoid any auspicious activities during Shraddh such as marriage, engagements and housewarming rituals. It is a belief that they bring bad luck. Avoid eating non-vegetarian food. Alcohol and tobacco should be avoided at all costs.
How to offer food during Pitru Paksha? ›
The food offerings made to the ancestors are usually cooked in silver or copper vessels and typically placed on a banana leaf or cups made of dried leaves. The person who performs the Shraadh should take a purifying bath beforehand and is expected to wear a dhoti. He wears a ring of darbha grass.
Can I eat chicken in Pitru Paksha? ›
Certain foods are to be avoided during this period, including non-vegetarian food, eggs, alcohol, and Tamasic foods like onion and garlic. Instead, a Sattvik diet is recommended for mental peace and spiritual growth.
Can you drink during Pitru Paksha? ›
Foods To Avoid During Pitru Paksha
Consuming non-vegetarian foods such as meat, chicken, eggs and others should be avoided as Shradh is considered a sacred period. Keep in mind to avoid drinking alcohol and alcoholic beverages during this 16-day Pitru Paksha.
How to remove pitra dosh? ›
Remedies include performing rituals, offering food to ancestors, visiting holy places, reciting mantras, practicing yoga and meditation, and seeking guidance from an astrologer. Life is all about challenges and obstacles. These challenges define the very essence of our existence.
How to give water for Pitru Paksha? ›
The devotees should take water, Kusha grass, Akshata, flowers and black sesame seeds in their hands. Meditate, keeping in mind the ancestors and request them to accept the water. Pandit Raja Acharya explained that in Dev Tirth, offerings are made to the ancestors while facing eastwards.
What are the signs of pitra dosh? ›
Unexplained Obstacles in Ancestral Property Matters – Individuals with Pitra Dosha may encounter persistent obstacles and disputes related to ancestral property matters. These issues can manifest as legal disputes, family conflicts, or unexplained delays in inheritance.
According to Swami Sivananda, Pitru Paksha increases the enjoyment of souls remaining in heaven before undergoing samsara or rebirth, or mitigates the suffering of those in other worlds; in the case those souls took another birth immediately after their deaths, Shraddha adds to their happiness in their new birth.
Which day is good for Pitru Paksha? ›
It is celebrated in the lunar month of Bhadrapada beginning with the full moon day or the day after the full moon day as per the South Indian Amavasya calendar and in the lunar month of Ashwin beginning with the full moon day in Bhadrapada or the next day of full moon day as per North Indian Purnimant calendar.
What is prohibited during Pitru Paksha? ›
Avoid eating onion, garlic, egg and meat during these days. 9. Consuming alcohol is strictly prohibited.
How do I get Pitru blessings? ›
During Pitru Paksha, many people invite priests and underprivileged people to their homes for a meal. It is believed that if you donate clothes to them, your ancestors will bless you. You can give them a dhoti, stall, or cap.
Can we eat onion in Pitru Paksha? ›
During the 16-day-long Pitru Paksha, those performing the rituals should avoid a long list of food items especially non-vegetarian food, alcohol, eggs, etc. Apart from this, tamasic food such as onion, garlic, and brinjals should be avoided.
Can we eat onions in Pitru Paksha? ›
During the 16-day-long Pitru Paksha, those performing the rituals should avoid a long list of food items especially non-vegetarian food, alcohol, eggs, etc. Apart from this, tamasic food such as onion, garlic, and brinjals should be avoided.
Why not to cut hair during Pitru Paksha? ›
Since this period is believed to be highly inauspicious, it is advisable to avoid any auspicious activity during the month. Events like marriage, buying a new home, or purchasing a new vehicle should be avoided completely. Meanwhile, make sure that you do not cut your hair or nails during the period of Pitru Paksha.
Can we clean house during Pitru Paksha? ›
Cleanliness: Maintain cleanliness and tidiness in your home during Pitru Paksha. A clean and well-organized space is considered auspicious and inviting for the ancestral spirits. Altar Placement: Create a dedicated altar or sacred space facing the south or southwest direction in your home.
