Sarva Pitru Amavasya for the year 2024 will be observed on Wednesday, October 2. The Amavasya Tithi begins at 9:39 PM on October 1, 2024, and ends at 12:18 PM on October 3, 2024. This day marks the culmination of the 16-day period known as Pitru Paksha, which is dedicated to honoring ancestors.
Significance of Sarva Pitru Amavasya
Sarva Pitru Amavasya holds great religious and spiritual significance in Hinduism. It is the last day of Pitru Paksha, a period when ancestors are believed to visit their descendants. This day is dedicated to all ancestors, especially those whose death dates may have been forgotten or are unknown. It is also known as Mahalaya Amavasya, particularly in West Bengal, where it marks the beginning of the Durga Puja festivities.
During Pitru Paksha, which starts on the full moon day (Purnima) and ends on the new moon day (Amavasya) of the Bhadrapada or Ashwin month, various rituals are performed to pay respect to the departed souls. It is believed that the ancestors who do not find peace wander around the Earth, and performing these rituals ensures they attain Moksha or salvation.
Rituals and Puja Vidhi
On Sarva Pitru Amavasya, several rituals are performed to honor the ancestors. Devotees wake up early, take a holy bath, and wear traditional attire, including a dhoti and a ring made from Kusha grass. The eldest son of the family typically performs the Shradh ritual, which involves offering Pind Daan rice, sesame seeds, and balls made of barley to the ancestors.
The rituals include offering flowers, food, dhoop, and diya to the ancestors. A mixture of water, barley, flour, Kusha grass, and black sesame, known as Tarpan, is also offered. Special mantras are recited under the guidance of a knowledgeable priest to invoke the blessings of the forefathers. Brahmins are invited to receive food and donations, and their feet are washed as a sign of respect.
Devotees also visit holy places, such as the Ganga Ghats, to take a holy bath and perform rituals. Feeding cows, crows, dogs, and ants is also considered meritorious. After the Puja rituals and Tarpan offering, Brahmins are served special meals prepared with devotion, and Dakshina (donations) are given to them.
Auspicious Muhurats
The Kutup Muhurat, considered highly auspicious, is from 11:46 AM to 12:34 PM, while the Rohina Muhurat follows from 12:34 PM to 1:21 PM. These periods are deemed ideal for performing the Shradh and Tarpan rituals.
Importance of Performing Rituals
Performing the rituals on Sarva Pitru Amavasya is believed to repay ancestral debt, seek forgiveness, and ensure spiritual liberation for the departed loved ones. It strengthens the bond between generations and seeks the ancestors' blessings for prosperity and well-being. Failure to perform these rituals can lead to ancestral displeasure, resulting in various difficulties in life.
