Pitru Paksha 2020: Pitru Paksha or Shradh is the period in which Hindus conduct ancestor worship by offering prayers. Shradh rituals are performed to pay homage to their ancestors and thank them for their help and also to provide peace to the soul. ALSO READ | Over 2,300 Covid-19 Cases In 24 Hrs: Is Delhi In Spot Of Bother Once Again? Here's What The Numbers Say

This is especially done by those who have lost their parents. It is believed that the ancestors will bless the family. Traditionally, the rituals are performed by the son for ancestors on the paternal side.

However, there is a day dedicated worship of the ancestors of the maternal side. Before starting the rituals, the male family member is supposed to take a purifying bath and is expected to wear a dhoti.

The ritual involves pinda dana, which is an offering to made to the anscestor. In this cooked rice and barley, flour balls are mixed with ghee and black sesame seeds. Lord Vishnu and the god of death Yama is also worshipped.

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Special food is also made during this time- delicacies such as kheer, puri, and halwa are considered to be auspicious. The food is cooked in copper and silver utensils. It is usually served in banana leaves or plates made out of dried leaves.

Pitru Paksha Dates

This year the Pitru Paksha has started from the full moon date of Shukla Paksha of Bhadrapada month from 1 - 2 September 2020 and will remain till Krishna Amavasya of Ashwin 17 September 2020. There are a total of 16 Shraddhas in the Pitru Paksha. This time Purnima Shraddha is on 2 September and Sarvapritri Amavasya Shradh is on 17 September.