Sarva Pitra Amavasya: Do these Things

Related Topics:Rituals and TraditionsShraadh

About Sarva Pitra Amavasya

Sarva Pitra Amavasya is one of the most important time periods in Hinduism. The last day of the Pitru Paksha period is known as Sarva Pitra Amavasya or Mahalaya Amavasya. This day holds special importance in the Hindu calendar as it marks the conclusion of the Pitru Paksha fortnight. On this day people can observe tarpan or Shraadh for all departed souls. If they do not remember the tithi or is not able to perform on other days dues to some reason, Sarva Pitru Amavasya is the day when one can observe it. This is the last day of the Pitru Paksha period to offer homage to the forefathers and ancestors. Performing the Shraadh Vidhi on this day alleviates the effects of certain astrological issues, such as Pitru Dosh. In 2023, Sarva Pitra Amavasya will be observed on 14^th October. 

Sarva Pitra Amavasya 2023 Tithi

• Sarva Pitra Amavasya Tithi 2023 – 14^th October, Saturday
• Sarva Pitra Amavasya Tithi starts – At 09.50 pm 13^th October, 2023
• Sarva Pitra Amavasya Tithi Ends – At 11.24 pm on 14^th October, 2023

Sarva Pitra Amavasya 2023 Shubh Timing

• Kutup Muhurat – 11:44 a.m to 12:30 p.m. Its duration consists of 00 hours 46 mins.
• Rohina Muhurat – 12:30 p.m to 01:16 p.m. Its duration consists of 00 hours 46 mins.
• Aparahna Kaal – 01:16 p.m to 03:35 p.m. Its duration consists of02 hours 18 mins

Following Things are Performed on this Day

On Sarva Pitru Amavasya, people perform Shraadh and Tarpan for their deceased family members. It is considered an auspicious period to perform ancestor rites if you can’t do so on specific days during the Shraadh Paksha. 

• The eldest male family member performs the Shradh.
• Special utensils made from clay or leaves are used, avoiding plastic, glass, steel or iron.
• Brahmins are invited to partake in the ritual, and the person conducting the Shraadh offers them food and dakshina (a form of offering). After inviting the Brahmins, their feet are washed, and they are seated at a sacred spot.
• During Pitru Paksha, generously feed cows, Brahmins, dogs, ants, cats, and ravens. Don’t consider this act as any loss.
• As an auspicious gesture, sesame seeds are sprinkled on the priests.
• Offerings are made to the forefathers, including lamps, incense, flowers, sandalwood, a mixture of barley flour and black sesame, water, sweets, fruits and more.
• While making these offerings, the person remembers their ancestors and acknowledges their good deeds. They seek forgiveness for any unintentional misbehaviour and for any misdeeds of their ancestors.
• Chanting various mantras plays a significant role in inviting divine grace and the blessings of one’s ancestors.
• Performing Shraddha Karma in specific places like Gaya, Prayag and Badrinath is believed to grant special blessings and salvation to one’s ancestors.

In order to know about the details of the Vidhi or any other part of the Shradh, you can speak to a qualified astrologer or pundit at NamoAstro. 

Things you should not do on Sarva Pitra Amavasya

It is equally important to know about the acts one must refrain from doing on this day. Since it is crucial to perform all the acts correctly. So, during this period, pay special attention to following things as well:

• During this period, it’s advisable to avoid eating certain foods like chickpeas, red lentils, green mustard leaves, barley, cumin seeds, radish, black salt, gourd, cucumber, and stale meals. 
• Additionally, it’s essential to treat all visiting living beings with respect and not insult anyone who comes to your home on this day.
• Avoid conducting Shraadh rituals during the evening, night, dawn or dusk.    
• According to scriptures, it’s important not to undertake any auspicious activities during the Pitru Paksha days. So, avoid purchasing vehicles or new items during this time, and refrain from consuming non-vegetarian food. 
• The person performing Shraadh rituals should not cut their nails, shave, or get a haircut. 
• It’s also advisable to avoid chewing tobacco, smoking cigarettes, or consuming alcohol, as these actions can hinder the positive results of the Shraadh karma.
•  If possible, refrain from wearing slippers inside the house for the entire 16 days.
• During Pitru Paksha, it’s believed that the ancestors visit your home in various forms, so it’s crucial not to disrespect any living being. 
• Instead, offer food and hospitality to any creature that comes to your door.
• The person performing the Shraadh should maintain strict celibacy during this period.
• Some foods like gram, lentils, cumin, black salt, gourd, cucumber, and mustard greens should be avoided. 
• Additionally, use vessels made of gold, silver, copper or bronze for rituals instead of iron. 

If you have any confusion, or want to know about any aspect of Sarva Pitra Amavasya, you can speak to our expert astrologers and pundits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the food items for Sarva Pitra Amavasya?

A: Offerings to the ancestors consist of food prepared in silver or copper utensils and are traditionally served on banana leaves or cups crafted from dried leaves. The meal typically includes Kheer (a sweet rice and milk dish), lapsi (sweet wheat porridge), rice, dal (lentils), spring beans (guar) as the vegetable, and yellow gourd (pumpkin).

Q: Can I seek guidance from an astrologer for Shraadh?

A: Yes, it is common to seek guidance from a knowledgeable astrologer when performing Shraadh, especially if you are unfamiliar with the rituals or specific traditions.  It is very important to perform the rituals correctly. In order to get help for any part of the ritual, you can always talk to an experienced astrologer at NamoAstro.

Q: Which time is considered best to perform Pitru Dosha Puja?

A: The best time to perform Pitru Dosha Pooja is during auspicious lunar phases, such as Mahalaya Amavasya or during the Pitru Paksha period.