During Pitru Paksha, the 16-day period when Hindus pay homage to their ancestors, Dwadashi Shradh holds a special significance. It's a day specifically for performing rituals for family members who passed away on the Dwadashi Tithi (the twelfth day of the lunar cycle).
This year, Dwadashi Shradh will be observed on Thursday, September 18, 2025.This day, also known as Baras Shradh, is a time for families to conduct ceremonies believed to bring peace to the souls of their ancestors.
Why Dwadashi Shradh is Important
Dwadashi Shradh is particularly significant for honoring the souls of those who had taken sanyasa (renunciation) before their passing.It is believed that performing these rituals with faith ensures the departed souls find peace and liberation, or ‘Moksha’ According to tradition, the souls of ancestors visit the Earth during Pitru Paksha, and these offerings are a way to show respect and seek their blessings
Auspicious Timings for the Rituals
Performing the Shradh rituals at the correct time is considered very important. For Dwadashi Shradh in 2025, the key timings are:
- Kutup Muhurat: 11:50 AM to 12:39 PM
- Rohina Muhurat: 12:39 PM to 01:28 PM
- Aparahna Kaal (Afternoon): 01:28 PM to 03:55 PM
These periods are believed to be the most auspicious for the ceremonies.
How to Observe Dwadashi Shradh
The rituals are typically performed by a male member of the family. The main ceremonies include:
- Pind Daan: This central ritual involves offering pindas, which are rice balls made from cooked rice, cow's milk, ghee, sugar, and honey.
- Tarpan: This is a ritual of offering water mixed with black sesame seeds to quench the spiritual thirst of the ancestors.
- Feeding Brahmins: It is customary to offer a specially prepared sattvik meal (pure vegetarian) to Brahmins, as it is believed that this offering reaches the ancestors.
- Offerings to Animals: Food is also given to cows, crows, dogs, and ants, as it is believed that ancestors may visit in any form.
- Charity: Donating food, clothes, and other essentials to those in need is also a significant part of the day's observance.
By following these traditions with devotion, families seek blessings from their ancestors for peace, happiness, and prosperity.
Read More: Garuda Purana Reveals How To Attain Swarg At The Time Of Death
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