Pitra Paksha

Pitra Paksha Tarpana, also known as Mahalay, is a period of fifteen days designated as time to honor the departed ancestors of family. These 15 days are also known as Sharad. Pitra Paksha is observed during the dark half of Ashwin - a lunar month which corresponds to September / October.

A unique element of this fundamental ritual is the offerings of Shradha to the ancestors. Meditation, mantra repetition and prayer also form part of Pitra Paksha. It is considered auspicious to make offerings to the poor and the Brahmins on this occasion.

According to scriptures, the sun enters the sign Virgo (Kanya) on this day. It is also believed that the departed souls come down to accept the offerings from their descendants.