Sarva Pitru Amavasya, a significant Hindu festival, will be observed on October 2, 2024. This day is dedicated to honoring deceased ancestors and marks the end of the 16-day Pitru Paksha. According to Hindu belief, during Pitru Paksha, the souls of ancestors visit the earthly realm, and families perform rituals to ensure these souls find peace and liberation. The Shraddha rituals play a crucial role in helping these souls attain Moksha (spiritual liberation), and their hunger is symbolically satisfied through the act of Pind Daan.
Rituals of Sarva Pitru Amavasya 2024
On this day, the eldest male family member usually leads the ceremonies. The rituals begin with a holy bath, after which the person conducting the rites wears clean clothes, typically a dhoti and the sacred thread (janeyu). A durva grass ring is worn during the Shraddha as a part of the ritual.
Food is offered to ants, dogs, crows, and cows as part of the sacred offerings. Many also engage in charitable acts by providing food, clothing, and other donations to the needy. The two key components of the rituals are offering “Tarpan” (water offering) to the ancestors and performing “Pind Daan.” Offerings are either given to crows representing the ancestors or immersed in a river. It is customary for a Brahmin to be the first recipient of the prepared food before family members consume it. In addition to the ceremonies, some people observe a fast (vrat) and make donations.
The Importance of Charity on Sarva Pitru Amavasya
Charity plays a vital role during Sarva Pitru Amavasya, with offerings of money, food, and clothing to the poor considered an essential aspect of the day. It is believed that generous giving promotes spiritual growth and helps the donor receive blessings from their ancestors.
Deities Worshiped During Sarva Pitru Amavasya
On this auspicious day, devotees pray to Lord Vishnu and Yama, the Hindu god of death. These deities are believed to assist the souls of the departed in achieving liberation (Moksha). Through the rituals, their blessings are sought for the peace of the departed souls and the protection of the living family members. This sacred day is a profound blend of rituals, charity, and devotion, aimed at honoring ancestors and aiding them on their journey to eternal peace.
