Purnima Shraddha 2024: Date, Time and Significance

Purnima Shraddha, also known as Shraddhi Purnima or Proshthapadi Purnima, is a significant ritual observed for paying respects to ancestors. In 2024, Purnima Shraddha will be performed on Tuesday, September 17. Although it falls just one day before the start of Pitru Paksha, Bhadrapada Purnima Shraddha is not considered part of Pitru Paksha. It is a distinct Parvan Shraddha, which means it follows a particular set of rituals and timings. It is important to note that Mahalaya Shraddha, for those who passed away on Purnima Tithi, is performed on the Amavasya Shraddha Tithi and not on Bhadrapada Purnima.

Date and Timings for Purnima Shraddha 2024:
Kutup Muhurat: 11:51 AM to 12:41 PM (Duration: 49 minutes)
Rohina Muhurat: 12:41 PM to 1:30 PM (Duration: 49 minutes)
Aparahna Kaal: 1:30 PM to 3:57 PM (Duration: 2 hours, 27 minutes)
Purnima Tithi Begins: 11:44 AM on September 17, 2024.
Purnima Tithi Ends: 8:04 AM on September 18, 2024.

Purnima Shraddha 2024 Rituals and Significance
During Purnima Shraddha, offerings are made to ancestors, and the rituals are performed at specific auspicious times, including Kutup and Rohina Muhurat. The Shraddha ends with the Tarpan ritual, which involves offering water to the ancestors. It is believed that these customs bring peace to the souls of the deceased and ensure that they ascend to heaven.

Shraddha rituals are mostly performed by sons for their deceased parents and other family members. The period of Pitru Paksha, which usually starts the day after Bhadrapada Purnima, is considered inauspicious for beginning any new ventures, including the purchase of new clothes or household items.

Importance of Mahalaya Shraddha
Mahalaya Shraddha, performed for those who passed away on Purnima Tithi, is traditionally observed on Amavasya Shraddha Tithi. This distinction ensures that the ancestral spirits are honoured on the correct day according to their Tithi.

Purnima Shraddha and Pitru Paksha Shraddha are considered vital rites in the Hindu tradition, with great importance placed on honouring ancestors. These rites are usually performed in September or October and involve inviting Brahmins for prayers, offering food, and giving donations. The head of the family, or "Karta," leads the rituals, ensuring proper respect is paid to the ancestors.