Pitru Paksha Rules — 16 Days of Observance, Dietary Rules & What Not to Do

Pitru Paksha 2026 runs from September 7 to September 21. These 16 days have specific rules that, when followed, amplify the benefit of any ancestral ceremony performed during this period.

Daily Morning Practice (All 16 Days) 1. Wake before sunrise 2. Take ritual bath 3. Offer water facing south (Pitru Tarpan) 4. Light a lamp (diya) for ancestors — sesame oil preferred 5. Recite Pitru Stotram or any prayer for ancestors

Dietary Rules During Pitru Paksha

**Strictly Avoid:** - Non-vegetarian food (meat, fish, eggs) - Onion and garlic (rajasic foods that disturb ritual purity) - Alcohol - Food cooked in iron vessels (copper or clay preferred) - Stale or reheated food - Eating alone — always share food with others or donate first

**Recommended Foods:** - Rice, kheer, and sattvic vegetables - Sesame-based sweets (til ke laddoo) - Fruits and dairy - Food cooked with love and offered to ancestors before eating

Activities to Avoid During Pitru Paksha - Auspicious ceremonies (weddings, house-warming, major celebrations) - Purchasing new major items (house, vehicle) - Hair cutting and shaving (except on the last day) - Nail cutting - Starting new business ventures

Activities Especially Meritorious During Pitru Paksha - Feeding Brahmins and the poor - Donating to temples - Reading Garuda Purana in the evening - Visiting Gaya for Pind Daan - Offering food to crows (crows are considered vessels for ancestral souls)