Shradh is one of the most important rituals in Hinduism which is observed for the dead ancestors. Shradh rituals are also known as Pitru Paksha or Kanagata.

Pitru Paksha rituals are widely mentioned in several religious texts like “Garuda Purana”, “Agni Purana”, and “Matsya Purana.”

Pind Daan and Tarpan rituals are performed to offer peace to the departed soul.

Pratipada Shradh in 2018

Pratipada Shradh is the first day of the Pitru Paksha. In this year, the date of Pratipada Shradh is 25th September 2018. Pratipada Shradha is also known as Padwa Shradh.

This shradh is performed for those who died on the Pratipada Tithi as per the Hindu calendar.  Deceased may have died in either fortnight i.e.Krishna Paksha or Shukla Paksha. It is said that observing Pratipada Shradh rituals brings happiness and prosperity.

Pratipada Shradh is best for those who wish to perform the last rituals of their grandparents.

According to the Hindus, Shradh rituals are performed only by Sons, not daughters. It is allowed for the son of a daughter to perform the last rites of his mother’s parents.

Pratipada day is considered to be inauspicious. It is believed that performing Shradh or last rituals of maternal grandparents gives peace to their departed soul.

Rituals of Pratipada Shradh

• Pratipada Shradh rituals involve offering tarpan to the ancestors. It is a way of giving respect and tribute to one’s ancestors.
• After the tarpan, Pind Daan is performed..
• After the completion of all the rituals, the food is offered to a Brahmin.
• You have to give the food to crow or cow
• “Daan” is also done on the Pratipada shradh for the deceased family member who dies on this tithi.