Pitrupaksha 2 min read

Important Dates: Pratipada Shraddha in Pitrupaksha

As Pitru Paksha 2025 commences on September 7th, the very first day, September 8th, holds special importance as Pratipada Shraddha, also known as Padwa Shraddha. Do you know if this is the day you should be observing Shraddha for your departed loved ones? This sacred day is specifically dedicated to ancestors who passed away on Pratipada Tithi, whether during the bright (Shukla) or dark (Krishna) lunar fortnight. Interestingly, it also offers a crucial opportunity to perform rites for maternal grandparents (Nana-Nani) if their exact death tithi is unknown or if there's no one else to fulfill this duty. The Pratipada Tithi itself begins late on September 7th (11:38 PM) and extends through most of September 8th, 2025, ending at 09:11 PM. But within this window, when are the most divinely ordained moments to perform these Parvan Shraddhas? The scriptures emphasize auspicious periods like Kutup Muhurat (around midday, e.g., 11:53 AM - 12:44 PM for New Delhi), followed by Rohina Muhurat, and the broader Aparahna Kaal. How can you pinpoint these precise, potent timings, which can vary by location, to ensure your offerings and Tarpan reach your ancestors effectively? Understanding these nuances is key to honoring your lineage with true devotion. Are you prepared to observe this first crucial Shraddha with complete clarity?

By prakharp 25 July 2023
Image of a cow eating pinda- Pratipada Shraddha in Pitrupaksha

Pratipada Shraddha, also known as Padwa Shraddha, is the first day of the Pitrupaksha period. In 2025, Pratipada Shraddha will be observed on Monday, September 8, 2025.

Here are the relevant timings for Pratipada Shraddha on that day:

The auspicious times (muhurat) to perform the Shraddha rituals on September 8, 2025, are generally considered to be:

  • Kutup Muhurat: This is a specific auspicious time frame. Different sources provide slightly varied timings:

    • 11:30 AM to 12:20 PM.

    • 11:53 AM to 12:44 PM (for New Delhi, NCT, India).

    • One source mentions 11:55 AM to 12:47 PM (local muhurat may vary).

  • Rohina Muhurat: Following the Kutup Muhurat:

    • 12:20 PM to 01:10 PM.

    • 12:44 PM to 01:34 PM (for New Delhi, NCT, India).

  • Aparahna Kaal (Post Meridian): This is a broader period suitable for Shraddha:

    • 01:10 PM to 03:40 PM.

    • 01:34 PM to 04:04 PM (for New Delhi, NCT, India).

Important Considerations:

  • Location Dependent: The exact muhurat timings can vary slightly based on your geographical location due to differences in sunrise and sunset times. It is always best to consult a local panchangam (Hindu almanac) or a knowledgeable priest for the precise timings in your specific area.

  • Parvan Shraddhas: Pitru Paksha Shraddhas are Parvan Shraddhas, and the auspicious time to perform them is generally during the Kutup Muhurat, Rohina Muhurat, or until the Aparahna Kaal gets over. Tarpan (water libation) is typically performed at the end of the Shraddha ritual.

  • Who performs Pratipada Shraddha?: Pratipada Shraddha is performed for deceased family members who passed away on the Pratipada Tithi (first day) of either the Shukla Paksha (waxing moon phase) or Krishna Paksha (waning moon phase). It is also considered a suitable day to perform Shraddha for maternal grandparents (Nana-Nani), especially if their exact death tithi is unknown or if there is no one in the maternal home to perform the rites.

Pitru Paksha in 2025 will begin on September 7, 2025, and conclude on September 21, 2025.

Image of a cow eating pinda- Pratipada Shraddha in Pitrupaksha

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