New Delhi: Sarvapitri Amavasya, the last day of Pitru Paksha, is considered to be the most special. It is also called Mahalaya Amavasya. On this day, Shraddha, Tarpan and Pind Daan are performed for all those ancestors whose date of death is not remembered or whose Shraddha could not be performed on the fixed date due to some reason. According to the Hindu calendar, Sarvapitri Amavasya in 2026 will be celebrated on Saturday, October 10. Amavasya Tithi will start from around 9.35 pm on 9th October and will continue till 9.19 pm on 10th October. Therefore, only 10th October will be valid for Shraddha and Tarpan. Pitru Paksha will end with this day.
What is the importance of this day?
It is believed that if the death anniversary of an ancestor is not known, or if his Shraddha is missed due to any reason during Pitru Paksha, then performing Shraddha on Sarvapitri Amavasya brings satisfaction to all the ancestors. On this day, taking the names of all the ancestors, known and unknown, offerings of water, sesame seeds and flowers are made with reverence.
How to perform Shraddha and Tarpan?
On this day, take bath in the morning and remember your ancestors. Perform Tarpan, Pind Daan and Shraddha rituals as per your family tradition and the advice of the priest. On this day, in many homes, there is a tradition of feeding cows, crows, dogs and donating food and clothes to the needy, which is called Panchbali. If capable, Brahmins can also provide food and dakshina. If there are no arrangements at home, food and grains can also be donated to the temple or to any needy person.
Should one eat food before Shraddha or not?
Every family has different rules regarding this. In many places there is a tradition of fasting and abstinence till the completion of Shraddha, while in some places there is permission to eat light Satvik food. Therefore, do not consider this as the same rule for everyone. Make the decision only after asking the priest according to your health, age and family tradition.
Who can perform Shraddha?
Generally, there is a tradition of performing Shraddha by the son, but in case there is no son, the wife, daughter or other close family members can also perform Shraddha. It is wrong to say that only the elder son can perform Shraddha. Along with this, let us tell you that during Pitru Paksha, satvik and moderate food is advised. Distance is maintained from non-vegetarian food and alcohol. Every region has its own rules regarding things like onion, garlic, lentils, so it is better to follow your family's tradition.