September 23, 10:01Aaj Tak

Pitru Paksha Dates 2026: Beginning and End of Ancestor Worship Period

In Hinduism, Pitru Paksha, also known as Shraddha Paksha, is considered the most sacred time to express deep respect and gratitude to ancestors. During these sixteen days, which fall in the dark fortnight of the Ashwin month, people perform rituals such as pindadana, tarpana, and charity to ensure peace, satisfaction, and receive the blessings of their ancestors' souls.

In 2026, Pitru Paksha will begin on September 26, 2026 (Saturday) with Pournima Shraddha and conclude on October 10, 2026 (Saturday) on the day of Sarvapitri Amavasya. Since there are no date reductions this year, the Shraddha period will be observed for the full 16 days while adhering to all traditions and rules.

Shraddha Period in 2026

According to the calendar, Pournima Shraddha will start on September 26, 2026 (Saturday), and the first date, Pratipada Shraddha, falls on September 27, 2026 (Sunday). The entire period concludes on October 10, 2026 (Saturday) with Sarvapitri Amavasya.

From an astrological perspective, this period, beginning and ending on a Saturday, is considered particularly auspicious. Saturday is regarded as an ideal day to receive grace from both the deity Shani and the ancestors.

Auspicious Times for Shraddha and Tarpana (Kutap and Rohini Kala)

According to sacred scriptures, the rituals of tarpana and pindadana for ancestors should be performed exclusively during the daytime. For this purpose, Kutap and Rohini Kala have been specifically designated as the best moments:

Kutap Muhurta: from 11:36 AM to 12:24 PM
Rohini Muhurta: from 12:24 PM to 1:12 PM
Aprachahar Kala: from 1:12 PM to 3:36 PM

Full List of Shraddha Dates in 2026

Below is the complete list of dates for performing Shraddha:

Pournima Shraddha - September 26, 2026, Saturday
Pratipada Tithi Shraddha - September 27, 2026, Sunday
Dwitiya Shraddha - September 28, 2026, Monday
Tritiya Shraddha - September 29, 2026, Tuesday
Chaturthi and Panchami Tithi Shraddha - September 30, 2026, Wednesday
Shashthi Tithi Shraddha - October 1, 2026, Thursday
Saptami Tithi Shraddha - October 2, 2026, Friday
Ashtami Tithi Shraddha - October 3, 2026, Saturday
Navami Tithi Shraddha - October 4, 2026, Sunday
Dashami Tithi Shraddha - October 5, 2026, Monday
Ekadashi Tithi Shraddha - October 6, 2026, Tuesday
Dwadashi Tithi Shraddha - October 7, 2026, Wednesday
Magha Tithi Shraddha - October 7, 2026, Wednesday
Trayodashi Tithi Shraddha - October 8, 2026, Thursday
Chaturdashi Tithi Shraddha - October 9, 2026, Friday
Sarvapitri Amavasya - October 10, 2026, Saturday

Main Rules for Performing Shraddha Rituals, Including Panchbali and Tarpan

On the day of Shraddha, after preparing food, it is necessary to first set aside a portion for Panchbali (which includes a cow, dog, crow, deity, and ant). According to belief, the food offered to these creatures directly reaches the ancestors.

When offering tributes to the ancestors (Jalandjali), pure water, a little raw milk, water from the Ganges, and black seeds should be used in a copper vessel. When performing tarpana, one must hold a kusha in the ring finger of the right hand.

Throughout all sixteen days, a completely sattvic atmosphere must be maintained in the house, avoiding the consumption of garlic, onion, meat, and alcohol. Furthermore, disrespect should not be shown to any destitute person or animal that comes to the house.

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www.aajtak.inSeptember 18, 09:45

Radha Ashtami 2026: Celebration Date, Auspicious Time, and Worship Ritual

The festival of Radha Ashtami is celebrated annually on the eighth day of the lunar month of Bhadrapada. This day is dedicated to the birthday of Shri Radha Rani, the beloved and powerful form of Lord Krishna. According to religious beliefs, Radha Rani's birth occurs 15 days after the birth of Krishna (Janmashtami).

It is believed that devotees who sincerely pray and observe a fast on this day in honor of Shri Radha and Krishna attain prosperity, love, and peace in their lives. It is asserted that worshiping only Krishna does not yield complete results until Radha Rani is also worshipped.

On this day, many people observe a fast, and in Barsana and Mathura-Vrindavan, this festival is celebrated very grandly and solemnly. As in previous years, there is some uncertainty regarding the date of Radha Ashtami this year, as some claim it should be celebrated tomorrow, while others say today.

When will Radha Ashtami 2026 be celebrated?

According to the Dik Panchang and the rising date, it is recommended to celebrate Radha Ashtami on September 19, 2026, which is Saturday, i.e., tomorrow.

Date of Radha Ashtami 2026

According to Dik Panchang, the date of Radha Ashtami will begin today, September 18, at 13:00, and conclude on September 19 at 15:26.

Auspicious Time for Radha Ashtami Worship 2026

The most suitable time for performing worship on Radha Ashtami is in the morning of September 19, from 11:00 to 13:28. This is considered the best time for prayer because, according to sacred scriptures, Shri Radha Rani was born during the day.

Radha Ashtami Worship Ritual 2026

On the day of Radha Ashtami, one must take a bath early in the morning and wear clean clothes, and then take the vow of fasting. After this, a clean mat should be spread at the place of worship, and a red or yellow cloth placed over it. A pitcher made of copper or clay is then placed on the platform. Next to the pitcher or on the platform, an idol or image of Shri Radha and Krishna is placed. If possible, Radha Rani should be anointed with Panchamrita. Radha Rani is adorned with beautiful clothing and jewelry. Then, offerings of roli, akshat (rice), sandalwood, flowers, incense, a lamp, and naivedya (fruits and sweets) are presented to them. The ritual concludes with reciting the mantra 'Om Shri Radhayai Namah', listening to stories, and lighting a lamp for Aarti.

Items for Radha Ashtami

During the worship on Radha Ashtami, items of bridal attire should be offered to Shri Radha Rani. After the worship, a small amount of this sindoor or prasad in the form of wedding accessories can be given to married women in the house or left at the feet of Mother Rani. This promotes increased love and sweetness in married life.

It is also recommended to offer perfumery and yellow flowers to Radha-Krishna, as Radha Rani and Krishna greatly love fragrance. On this day, perfume of roses or jasmine, as well as fresh yellow or pink flowers (such as hibiscus or bouquets of roses), should be offered to them. Performing this brings positive energy and attractiveness into life.

www.aajtak.inSeptember 15, 08:02

Pitru Paksha Dates 2026: Beginning and End of Ancestor Remembrance Period and Shraddha Ritual Schedule

The Pitru Paksha period, also known as Mahalaya or Shraddha Paksha, is considered very significant in Hinduism. It represents a sacred period of 16 days dedicated to expressing respect, reverence, and gratitude to ancestors (Pitramas).

According to Drik Panchang, Pitru Paksha annually lasts from the full moon of the Bhadrapada month to the new moon of the Ashwin month. In the current year, Pitru Paksha will begin on September 27 and end on October 10 on the day of Sarvapitri Amavasya.