Mahalaya Shraddh: Honouring Our Ancestors with Love and Respect

Mahalaya Shraddh is a special day in Hindu culture when families remember and pray for their ancestors. It is not just about rituals, it is a heartfelt way to stay connected with those who are no longer with us. This day helps us express our gratitude and seek blessings from our forefathers.

What is Mahalaya Shraddh?

Mahalaya Shraddh is observed on the last day of Pitru Paksha, a period of 16 days dedicated to our ancestors. It usually comes in the month of Ashwin (around September or October). This day is also known as Sarvapitri Amavasya, meaning it is meant for all departed souls, especially if someone couldn't perform individual Shraddh earlier. Mahalaya Amavasya will be observed on Sunday, 21st September 2025. It marks the last day of Pitru Paksha, a sacred period dedicated to paying homage to ancestors through rituals like Shraddh, Pind Daan, and Tarpan.

It is believed that during Pitru Paksha, the souls of ancestors visit the earth. Performing Mahalaya Shraddh helps them find peace and move towards liberation.

Why Do We Perform Mahalaya Shraddh?

In Indian tradition, it's believed that ancestors play an important role in our lives even after their passing. When we perform rituals and offer prayers for them, they bless us with happiness, health, and success. Mahalaya Shraddh is the most important day to do these rituals as it’s considered spiritually powerful and purifying.

How is Mahalaya Shraddh Done?

Though different regions may follow slightly different methods, the main practices usually include:

Tarpan: Offering water mixed with sesame seeds and barley to ancestors while taking their names.

Pind Daan: Offering rice balls made of sesame, flour, and ghee to symbolically feed the departed souls.

Feeding the Needy: Food is offered to Brahmins, cows, and crows, who are believed to represent ancestors on this day.

Many families also visit holy places like Gaya, Varanasi, Prayagraj, or Haridwar to perform these rituals, but they can also be done at home with full devotion and faith.

Who Can Perform Mahalaya Shraddh?

Traditionally, the eldest son of the family performs the rituals. However, if a son is not present, any close family member even daughters can perform Shraddh with sincerity. What matters most is the pure intention and respect for the ancestors.

A Day of Emotions and Reflection

Mahalaya Shraddh is not just a spiritual event; it is an emotional one too. Many people remember their parents or grandparents, look at old photos, light a lamp, and pray silently. It’s a time of reflection remembering the sacrifices made by our elders and the values they passed down to us.

Conclusion

Mahalaya Shraddh is more than just a ritual. It’s a beautiful tradition that teaches us to respect our roots and honour those who shaped our lives. Whether done at a temple, riverbank, or at home, the love and respect we offer our ancestors on this day are what truly matter.