Pitru Paksha Do’s and Don’ts: What to Do & Avoid During Shradh

Pitru Paksha is a sacred period of 16 days dedicated to remembering and honoring one’s ancestors. During these days, families traditionally perform Shraddha, offer food and Tarpan, make charitable donations, and observe other rituals as a way of expressing gratitude toward their forefathers.

Since many customs and practices are associated with this period, knowing what to do and what to avoid can help you observe Pitru Paksha with greater care, respect, and devotion.

Do’s During Pitru Paksha

• Perform Shraddha on the Correct Tithi: Observe the Shraddha ritual on the lunar Tithi associated with the departed ancestor, according to your family tradition.

• Perform Pitru Tarpan: Offer Tarpan with water, black sesame, Kusha, and other prescribed materials as part of the ancestral observance.

• Keep the Ritual Area Clean: Clean the puja space and use clean clothes and utensils while performing Shraddha or Tarpan.

• Offer Sattvic Food: Prepare simple vegetarian food for the prescribed offerings, following your family's traditional practices.

• Make Charitable Offerings: Donate food, clothes, or other useful items as part of the Shraddha observance, according to your family tradition.

• Follow Family Rituals: Give priority to the customs and procedures traditionally followed by your family or community.

• Read or Listen to Sacred Texts: Recite or listen to traditional scriptures and devotional stories associated with dharma, ancestors, and spiritual reflection.

• Maintain Sincerity During Rituals: Perform Shraddha and Tarpan with cleanliness, focus, and respect rather than treating them as a routine formality.

Don’ts During Pitru Paksha

• Avoid Major Auspicious Ceremonies: Weddings, housewarming ceremonies, and similar major celebrations are traditionally avoided during Pitru Paksha.

• Avoid Starting Major New Ventures: Many families avoid starting a new business, purchasing property, or beginning other major ventures during this period.

• Avoid Non-Vegetarian Food: Families following a sattvic observance generally avoid meat, fish, and eggs during Pitru Paksha.

• Avoid Alcohol and Intoxicants: Alcohol and other intoxicating substances are traditionally avoided during Shraddha and Pitru-related observances.

• Avoid Onion and Garlic: Some families avoid onion and garlic as part of a sattvic diet during this period.

• Avoid Haircuts and Shaving: Many traditions recommend avoiding haircuts, shaving, and similar grooming practices during Pitru Paksha, particularly on specific Shraddha days.

• Avoid Excessive Entertainment: Parties, celebrations, and unnecessary indulgence are generally avoided to maintain the reflective nature of the period.

• Avoid Arguments and Harsh Speech: Try to maintain a calm environment and avoid unnecessary conflict, anger, or disrespect during the observance.

• Do Not Ignore the Prescribed Tithi: If performing Tithi-based Shraddha, do not casually choose another day without understanding the relevant ritual tradition.

• Do Not Perform Shraddha Carelessly: Avoid performing ancestral rituals without basic cleanliness, preparation, or attention to the prescribed procedure.

Common Activities to Perform or Avoid During Pitru Paksha or Shardh