New Delhi: Pitru Paksha or Shradh paksha which is also known as fortnight for the ancestors, is a 16-lunar day period that falls in the Hindu lunar month of Bhadrapada (September-October).

According to Hindu calendar, this year Pitru Paksha will commence on September 1 and end on September 17.

This Shradh is a ritual which is performed by children or relatives of dead ancestors for the peace of the departed soul.

During this time period, the ritual of Pind-Daan is performed which is a must-to-do obligation for all Hindus or followers of Hindu religion.

Pind Daan is a ritual of offering cooked food to the crows. These birds are believed to be the representatives of Yama (God of Death) or agents of the dead.

Pitru Dosh Shanti Mantra

“Om Namo Bhagawate Vasudeway”
“Om Shreem Sarva Pitra Dosha Nivaranay klesham Han Han Sukh Shantim Dehi Phat Swaha”

Sarv Pitru Devataabhyo Namah

Pahale Pitru Naaraayanay Namah