Sarva Pitru Amavasya 2023: A Guide to Honoring Ancestors

Sarva Pitru Amavasya, also known as Pitru Paksha, commenced on September 29th and will conclude on October 14th in 2023. This day holds immense significance as it marks the final day of Pitru Paksha, a period dedicated to paying homage to our ancestors. On the day following Sarva Pitru Amavasya, Sharadiya Navaratri begins, signifying a transition in the Hindu calendar. This article delves into the rituals and importance of Sarva Pitru Amavasya in honoring our forefathers.

The Significance of Sarva Pitru Amavasya

Sarva Pitru Amavasya, also referred to as Mahalaya Amavasya or Pitru Moksha Amavasya, falls on the Amavasya (new moon) day of the Krishna Paksha in the Ashwin month. This day serves as an opportunity for descendants to perform rituals and offer prayers to appease the souls of their departed ancestors.

Auspicious Timing for Tarpan

Performing tarpan (offering oblations to the deceased) on Sarva Pitru Amavasya is considered highly auspicious. The most propitious timings for tarpan on this day are as follows:

Kutup Muhurat

• Begins at 11:44 AM and concludes at 12:30 PM.

Rohini Muhurat

• Starts at 12:30 PM and ends at 01:16 PM.

Aparahna Kaal

• Commences at 01:16 PM and concludes at 03:35 PM.

Who Should Observe Sarva Pitru Amavasya?

Families observe Sarva Pitru Amavasya by performing shraddha (rituals) for deceased family members whose death occurred on an Amavasya, Purnima, or Chaturdashi tithi. The offerings made on this day are believed to bring solace to the departed souls. Additionally, for ancestors whose death dates are unknown, Sarva Pitru Amavasya serves as an opportune occasion for performing shraddha.

Significance of Sarva Pitru Amavasya

Sarva Pitru Amavasya is also known as Sarvapitri Moksha Amavasya because it is believed that performing rituals on this day can grant moksha (liberation) to the souls of ancestors. It is a time to seek forgiveness for any shortcomings in fulfilling one’s duties towards the departed ancestors and to honor their memory.

The Connection with Akal Mrityu

In cases where a family has experienced an untimely death, or Akal Mrityu, performing rituals on Sarva Pitru Amavasya can bring peace and relief to the departed soul. It is believed that the offerings made on this day have a soothing effect on the souls who left this world prematurely.

Conclusion

Sarva Pitru Amavasya holds immense importance in Hindu tradition as a day to honor and remember our ancestors. It is a time to reflect on our duties towards those who came before us and seek their blessings. By performing tarpan and shraddha rituals with devotion and sincerity, we can ensure that our ancestors find peace in the afterlife.