Shradh, also known as Pitru Paksha, is a sacred Hindu tradition dedicated to honoring ancestors. In 2025, Shradh begins on September 7 and ends on September 21, culminating on Sarva Pitri Amavasya—also called Mahalaya Amavasya.
What Are the Shradh 2025 Dates?
- Start: September 7 (Purnima Shradh)
- End: September 21 (Sarva Pitri Amavasya)
These dates are widely shared across reliable sources as the official Shradh 2025 dates
Why is Shradh So Important?
Shradh holds a deep spiritual significance in Hindu culture. It is believed that the souls of ancestors visit during this period and accept offerings from their descendants, bringing peace to them and blessings to the living
According to key scriptures like the Garuda Purana and Markandeya Purana, performing Shradh fulfills a sacred duty to one’s ancestors. It ensures the departed soul’s journey toward moksha (liberation) and invites health, wealth, knowledge, and longevity for the family
The Word “Shradh” – Meaning & Origin
The term “Shradh” comes from Sanskrit and emphasizes faith, sincerity, and devotion. It signifies performing the ritual with wholehearted belief and respect
Key Shradh (Pitru Paksha) Rituals
- Pind Daan: Offering rice balls made with rice, barley flour, ghee, sesame seeds, and water. These symbolize nourishment offered to ancestors
- Tarpan: Pouring water mixed with black sesame seeds (til), barley, and Gangajal (holy water) while chanting mantras for peace to ancestors
- Feeding Brahmins and Animals: Offering food to Brahmins, cows, dogs, and crows is believed to be auspicious and pleases ancestral spirits
- Charity and Donations: Giving away food, clothing, or money aligns with the spirit of Shradh and brings blessings for the family
Day-Wise Shradh Observances
Each lunar day (tithi) of Shradh may honor an ancestor who passed on that particular date. The cycle includes:
- Purnima Shradh (September 7)
- Pratipada to Trayodashi Shradh
- Chaturdashi Shradh for those who suffered a tragic death
- Sarva Pitri Amavasya (September 21) for all ancestors, especially when the exact date is unknown
What to Avoid During Shradh
To maintain the sanctity of the ritual:
- Avoid new beginnings such as marriages, buying property or jewelry
- No travel, cutting nails or hair, or impure foods; focus on purity, devotion, and simplicity
Why It Matters Today
All over India and abroad, families observe Shradh to reinforce a sense of cultural continuity. Stories from the Mahabharata, like that of Karna’s redemption through Shradh, highlight its moral importance
Performing Shradh nurtures spiritual growth, gratitude, and strengthens the bond between past and present generations
When is Shradh 2025?
Shradh 2025 starts on 7 September and ends on 21 September with Sarva Pitri Amavasya.
Why is Shradh performed?
Shradh is performed to honor ancestors, bring peace to their souls, and receive blessings of health, wealth, and happiness.
What are the main rituals of Shradh?
Key rituals include Pind Daan, Tarpan, feeding Brahmins, offering food to animals, and charity.
Can Shradh be done at home?
Yes, Shradh can be performed at home with sincerity using rice, sesame seeds, water, and by chanting mantras with devotion.
What should be avoided during Shradh?
Avoid marriages, new beginnings, cutting hair, eating non-veg food, and buying new items during Shradh.