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In the rich tapestry of Hindu traditions, the Pitru Paksha holds a special place. It is a dedicated fortnight for remembering, honoring, and expressing gratitude to our ancestors. During this sacred period, Saptami Shraddha is a key observance for families to ensure the peace of their departed loved ones.
Understanding Saptami Shraddha and its 2025 Date
Saptami Shraddha is the ritual performed for family members who passed away on the Saptami Tithi (the seventh day) of any Hindu lunar month, regardless of whether it was in the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) or the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) This ceremony is a heartfelt way to pay homage and seek blessings from those who came before us.
In 2025, Saptami Shraddha will be observed on Saturday, September 13th.
- Saptami Tithi Begins: 7:23 AM on September 13, 2025
- Saptami Tithi Ends: 5:04 AM on September 14, 2025
Astrologically, there are specific periods during the day that are considered most auspicious for performing the rituals. These include:
- Kutup Muhurat: 11:52 AM to 12:42 PM
- Rohina Muhurat: 12:42 PM to 01:31 PM
The Rituals: A Step-by-Step Guide
Performing the Shraddha rituals is a deeply meaningful process, typically carried out by the eldest son or a male relative of the deceased. It involves several key steps:
- Purification: The day begins with a cleansing bath, and the person performing the ritual wears clean, simple clothes like a dhoti.The house, especially the area for the ceremony, is thoroughly cleaned to create a sacred space.
- Pind Daan: This is a central part of the ceremony where "Pindas"—balls made of cooked rice, barley flour, ghee, and black sesame seeds—are offered to the ancestors.This symbolizes nourishment for their souls on their spiritual journey.
- Tarpan: Tarpan is the offering of water mixed with black sesame seeds, barley, and grass This is done to quench the thirst of the departed souls and bring them peace.
- Brahmin Bhoj: Inviting and feeding Brahmin priests is a vital part of the Shraddha. The act of serving them food is considered as feeding the ancestors themselves. After the meal, the family offers clothes and a donation (Dakshina) as a mark of respect to seek blessings
- Offerings to Animals: Portions of the specially prepared food are also given to a crow, a cow, and a dog. In Hindu beliefs, the crow is seen as a messenger from the ancestors, and feeding these animals completes the ritual.
Why This Observance Matters
Performing Saptami Shraddha is more than just a tradition; it's a profound act of remembrance and gratitude.It is believed that these rituals help the souls of the ancestors find peace and move smoothly in their journey beyond
In return, it is said that the pleased ancestors bestow blessings of health, prosperity, and happiness upon their living family members.] It is also seen as a way of repaying the "pitra rin" or ancestral debt, which helps in clearing karmic obstacles and fostering harmony within the family.
Essential Items for the Ceremony
To perform the puja, you will generally need:
- A photograph of the ancestor
- Ingredients for Pind Daan: cooked rice, black sesame seeds, barley flour, ghee
- Items for Tarpan: water, a copper vessel
- Puja items: flowers, incense, a ghee lamp
- Food for the Brahmin Bhoj and for the animals.
Ultimately, Saptami Shraddha connects generations, reminding us of the lineage we come from. It's a day to strengthen family bonds and honor the enduring legacy of our ancestors.
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