Essential dos and don'ts you should follow during Shradh to honour your ancestors

Ensure a meaningful and respectful observance of Shradh this season. (Image: Canva)

Shradh, also known as Pitru Paksha, is a time to remember our ancestors; it is a time for gratitude and offerings. To ensure a meaningful and respectful observance, here are some essential dos and don'ts during this Shradh season:

Dos

Perform shradh on the right day: Shradh is typically performed on the 16th day of the waning moon in the Hindu month of Bhadrapad.

Offer Pind daan: This is the core ritual of Shradh, where cooked rice balls are offered to the ancestors. The Pind is typically made of rice, sesame seeds, and water.

Stay connected with spiritual practices: Engage in reading holy scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita or Ramayana, chanting mantras, and participating in satsangs. This helps in creating a spiritual atmosphere that is conducive to honouring ancestors.

Donate to charity: Donating food, clothes, or money to the needy is a significant part of Shradh.

Maintain purity: Avoid non-vegetarian food, alcohol, and other intoxicants. Consuming simple, spiritual food is believed to aid in spiritual elevation and connect better with the departed souls.

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Feed the hungry: Prepare a feast and invite Brahmins or the needy to partake. This is known as "Brahma Bhojan."

Remember deceased loved ones: Recall fond memories of your ancestors and express your gratitude for their blessings.

Don'ts

Avoid celebrations and auspicious beginnings: Shradh is a period of solemnity and remembrance. Avoid celebrations, purchasing new items, or starting new ventures during this period, as it is considered inauspicious.

Refrain from eating non-vegetarian food and using garlic and onions: Non-vegetarian food and items like garlic and onions are believed to disturb the sanctity of the rituals. It's recommended to avoid them during Shradh.

Travel long distances: It's generally not recommended to travel long distances during Shradh.

Cut hair or nails: Some believe that cutting hair or nails during Shradh is inauspicious.

Do not engage in negative behaviour: Avoid anger, arguments, and any form of negative behaviour that could disturb the peace and sanctity of the period.