Indira Ekadashi Date in 2026: Information on the First Fasting Period of Pitr Paksha

The month of Ashwin in 2026 will begin on September 27th and end on October 26th, and this period is considered very significant in terms of religious fasts and festivals. Furthermore, this month is considered auspicious for performing rituals dedicated to ancestor worship.

The period for performing ancestral remembrance rites (Sharad Drik) will last from September 27th to October 10th. Following this, the great festival of Navaratri, dedicated to Goddess Durga, will commence. During this time, important events such as Durga Ashtami, Mahanavami, Vijayadashami, Papankusha Ekadashi, Sharad Purnima, and Karva Chauth will take place.

The following events are scheduled for the month: completion of Shri Mahalakshmi fast on October 3, 2026; Indira Ekadashi on October 6, 2026; end of the ancestor worship period (Sarvapitri Amavasya) on October 10, 2026; start of Sharadiya Navaratri on October 11, 2026; worship of Durga Ashtami on October 19, 2026; Mahanavami on October 20, 2026; Vijayadashami on October 20, 2026; completion of Navaratri fast on October 21, 2026; Sharad Purnima fast on October 25, 2026; Kojagara Vrat on October 25, 2026; Jayanti of Maharshi Shri Valmiki on October 26, 2026; start of Kartik month on October 26, 2026; and Karva Chauth fast on October 29, 2026.

In 2026, Sharadiya Navaratri will begin on Sunday, October 11th. On this day, which coincides with Ashwin Shukla Pratipada, Navaratri and Ghatasthapana will commence. During Navaratri, worship of various forms of Goddess Durga is performed.

Durga Ashtami during Navaratri will be celebrated on Monday, October 19th. On this day, special significance is given to the worship of the form Mahagauri of Goddess Durga. Many devotees observe the tradition of Kanya Puja and the completion of the Navaratri fast on this very day. This date also coincides with Mahanavami.

Vijayadashami, or Dasara, will take place on Tuesday, October 20th. In 2026, Durga Ashtami and Mahanavami fall on October 19th, while Vijayadashami and Dasara are celebrated the following day, on Ashwin Shukla Dashami.

The Karva Chauth fast is observed on the fourth day (Charti) of the Krishna Paksha Kartik lunar month. In 2026, Karva Chauth falls on Thursday, October 29th. On this day, married women observe a fast wishing longevity and a happy married life for their husbands. According to tradition, the fast is broken after offering water (Arghya) to the Moon.

In Hinduism, Pitru Paksha is considered a special period for honoring ancestors and expressing reverence towards them. During this time, various rites such as Shraddha, Tarpan, and Pindadaan are performed for deceased family members. There is a belief that remembering ancestors and performing religious acts for their spiritual peace holds particular significance during these days.

Pitru Paksha 2026

In 2026, Pitru Paksha will begin on September 27th and conclude on October 10th, which is Sarvapitri Amavasya. Additionally, a Pournima Shraddha will be performed on September 26th.

When does Pitru Paksha start?

Pitru Paksha in 2026 starts on September 27th. During this period, ancestor remembrance is conducted according to different dates. Traditionally, Shraddha is performed on the day of a person's death. However, it should be noted that differences may exist across various regions and families based on Panchanga calculations.

The last day of Pitru Paksha will be October 10th, when Sarvapitri Amavasya is observed. This day is also important for ancestors whose dates of death are unknown.

Main Dates of Pitru Paksha in 2026

The main dates include: Pournima Shraddha — September 26th; Pratipada Shraddha — September 27th; Dwitiya Shraddha — September 28th; Tritiya Shraddha — September 29th; Chaturthi Shraddha — September 30th; Panchami Shraddha — October 1st; Shashthi Shraddha — October 2nd; Saptami Shraddha — October 3rd; Ashtami Shraddha — October 3rd; Navami Shraddha — October 4th; Dashami Shraddha — October 5th; Ekadashi Shraddha — October 6th; Dwadashi Shraddha — October 7th; Trayodashi Shraddha — October 8th; Chaturdashi Shraddha — October 9th; and Sarvapitri Amavasya — October 10th.

It is important to remember that Shraddha dates depend on lunar calendars and local Panchanga calculations, so when determining the time for a specific ritual, one should refer to the local Panchanga or family traditions.

What is Shraddha?

Shraddha is related to expressing respect and reverence for ancestors. During Pitru Paksha, family members perform Shraddha rituals according to the date of death of their deceased relatives. These rites involve worship, offering food, and charity, and their performance may vary depending on family and regional traditions.

How is Tarpan performed?

Tarpan also holds great significance during Pitru Paksha. In this ritual, water is offered to the ancestors. According to many traditions, water in a copper vessel, black seeds, milk, and Ganga water are used for Tarpan. Kusha is also considered a sacred plant. Traditionally, when performing Tarpan, one should face south, as the southern direction is associated with the Pitras in Hindu beliefs.

What is the significance of Pindadaan?

Pindadaan is an important part of pitra rituals. During this, pindas are offered to the ancestors. The method of making and offering pindas can vary depending on different religious traditions and family customs. Some families also perform Pindadaan at pilgrimage sites during Pitru Paksha, following methods indicated by local traditions and the priest.

What is included in the food during Shraddha?

Many families have a tradition of preparing sattvic food on Shraddha days. The composition of the dishes may differ depending on the region and family customs. According to several traditions, a portion of the food during Shraddha is given to animals such as cows, dogs, and crows, which is considered part of the religious practice.

What is avoided during Pitru Paksha?

Pitru Paksha is generally viewed as a time for ancestor remembrance and performing religious rites. Therefore, many families try to avoid holding large and auspicious events during this period. Traditionally, auspicious events such as weddings, as well as starting new businesses or important endeavors, are refrained from during these days. It is also recommended to refrain from moving into a new house or purchasing expensive or luxurious items, as well as holding large festivals or celebrations. Nevertheless, adherence to these rules is not universal for all families, as religious traditions can change depending on the region, community, and family customs.

Furthermore, there is a tradition during Pitru Paksha of donating and helping the needy. Many people donate food, clothing, footwear, til, and other necessary items during this period. Charity is seen as a way to express reverence for ancestors and help those in need.

It is important to remember that the methods of performing Shraddha and Tarpan are not uniform everywhere. The correct determination of the date and method of Shraddha should be based on the traditions of one's family and the local Panchanga.