Pitru Paksha 2026: date, timings and what to know
The 16-day period for Shraddh, tarpan and pind daan to honour ancestors. 26 September to 10 October 2026, ending on Sarva Pitru Amavasya.
Pitru Paksha (also called Shraddh Paksha or Mahalaya Paksha) is the fortnight in which Hindus remember and make offerings to departed ancestors. In 2026 it runs from Saturday 26 September (Purnima Shraddh) to Saturday 10 October, when Sarva Pitru Amavasya (Mahalaya Amavasya) closes it.
The central rule is that the Shraddh of a person is performed on the tithi (lunar day) on which they passed away, not on the calendar date. Each of the 16 tithis has its own date this year: use the Shraddh tithi finder below to see yours. If the tithi is not known, Sarva Pitru Amavasya on 10 October is the day for all ancestors.
Quick answers
When is Pitru Paksha 2026?
From Saturday 26 September to Saturday 10 October 2026. Sarva Pitru Amavasya (Mahalaya) is on 10 October.
What if I do not know the tithi of death?
Perform Shraddh on Sarva Pitru Amavasya, 10 October 2026. Its merit is considered equal to performing Shraddh on every tithi.
Which tithi is Matru Navami?
Navami, on 4 October 2026, is set aside for mothers and married women who died before their husbands.
Event times are computed from NASA JPL DE421 (tropical zodiac). Astrology is offered for reflection and entertainment. Editorial standards.