Introduction Pitru Paksha 2024, also known as Shradh or Mahalaya Paksha, is a significant period in the Hindu calendar dedicated to performing rituals and offering prayers to honor ancestors. In 2024, Pitru Paksha will be observed from September 17 to October 2. During this period, Hindus perform Shradh rituals to pay homage to their departed ancestors, seeking their blessings and ensuring peace for their souls. The festival is deeply rooted in the belief that honoring one’s ancestors brings prosperity, protection, and familial harmony. This article delves into the significance of Pitru Paksha, the important rituals performed during this period, the key dates for 2024, and the mantras chanted to invoke blessings from ancestors. Significance of Pitru Paksha Pitru Paksha 2024 is a time to express gratitude and reverence toward ancestors. According to Hindu beliefs, our ancestors reside in Pitru Loka, a realm between heaven and earth, and during Pitru Paksha, they visit the earth to receive offerings from their descendants. It is believed that by performing Tarpan (ritual of offering water), Pind Daan (offering rice balls), and other Shradh rituals, one can provide peace to their ancestors’ souls and receive their blessings. The Garuda Purana, one of the 18 Mahapuranas, emphasizes the importance of performing ancestral rites during Pitru Paksha. It states that failing to honor one’s ancestors during this time may result in Pitru Dosh, a dosha (curse) that can create obstacles in one’s life. Key Dates for Pitru Paksha 2024 Pitru Paksha in 2024 begins on September 17 and ends on October 2, with the most important day being Mahalaya Amavasya on October 2. This final day is considered the most auspicious for performing Shradh rituals and seeking forgiveness for any shortcomings in honoring ancestors during the previous days. Here is the detailed Shradh Paksha calendar for 2024: Pitru Paksha 2024 Date Shradh Tithi September 17, 2024 Pratipada Shradh September 18, 2024 Dwitiya Shradh September 19, 2024 Tritiya Shradh September 20, 2024 Chaturthi Shradh September 21, 2024 Panchami Shradh September 22, 2024 Shashti Shradh September 23, 2024 Saptami Shradh September 24, 2024 Ashtami Shradh September 25, 2024 Navami Shradh September 26, 2024 Dashami Shradh September 27, 2024 Ekadashi Shradh September 28, 2024 Dwadashi Shradh September 29, 2024 Trayodashi Shradh September 30, 2024 Chaturdashi Shradh October 1, 2024 Amavasya Shradh (Mahalaya) Pitru Paksha Rituals Pitru Paksha 2024 Rituals Mantras for Pitru Paksha 2024 Chanting mantras during Pitru Paksha enhances the spiritual energy of the rituals. Here are a few important mantras that are recited during Shradh: Astrological Importance of Pitru Paksha 2024 Astrologically, Pitru Paksha is connected to the lunar cycle, particularly the waning phase of the moon. It is believed that during this time, the sun and the moon align in such a way that the veil between the world of the living and the realm of ancestors becomes thinner, allowing ancestors to come closer to the earth. Astrologers often recommend performing Shradh rituals during specific Tithis (dates) based on the Nakshatra (lunar mansion) of the person performing the rituals. Special attention is given to Mahalaya Amavasya, the new moon day, as it holds the highest significance in terms of astrological impact. Do’s and Don’ts During Pitru Paksha 2024 Do’s: Don’ts: Conclusion Pitru Paksha 2024 is a time to reflect on the spiritual connection between the living and the departed. By observing the rituals and performing Shradh with a pure heart, you can ensure peace for your ancestors and bring blessings to your family. The period is not just about rituals, but about expressing gratitude, seeking forgiveness, and maintaining the lineage’s spiritual well-being. Performing the rites and mantras during Pitru Paksha 2024 will bring harmony, prosperity, and protection to you and your loved ones. Let this Shradh season be a meaningful homage to the departed souls who have shaped your life and family.