Mahalaya Paksham / Pitru Paksha dates
Mahalaya Paksha, also known as Pitru Paksha, is a period in Hindu lunar calendar dedicated to paying homage to one’s ancestors or pitrus. This observance typically lasts for 15 days and falls in the lunar month of Bhadrapada (usually in September-October), leading up to the Pitru Amavasya, which is the new moon day. The exact dates for Mahalaya Paksha vary from year to year based on the Hindu calendar.
During this period, it is believed that the souls of departed ancestors or pitrus visit the Earth, and it is an auspicious time to perform various rituals and ceremonies to honor and seek blessings for them. Some common rituals and activities during Pitru Paksha include:
1. Tarpanam: Offering water and sesame seeds to ancestors while reciting their names and gotras to seek their blessings and peace for their souls.
2. Pind Daan: Preparing and offering rice balls or pindas to the ancestors. This is usually performed by pandit or individuals for their deceased relatives.
3. Food Offerings: Offering food, particularly the deceased’s favorite dishes, to the ancestors.
4. Donations: Giving donations to the poor or performing acts of charity in the name of one’s ancestors.
5. Prayers and Mantras: Reciting specific prayers, mantras, and scriptures dedicated to pitrus during this period.
6. Visiting Holy Places: Pilgrimages to sacred rivers and places to perform rituals for the departed souls.
As for conducting Pitru Paksha ceremonies via platforms like Skype or Zoom, it is possible to do so, especially if individuals or families are unable to physically gather due to various reasons, such as distance or pandemic-related restrictions. In such cases, a pandits or a knowledgeable person can guide the ceremony remotely, providing instructions and conducting the rituals while the participants follow along through a video call.
Virtual Pitru Paksha Ceremony:
- Choose a date and time during Pitru Paksha.
- Find an experienced pandit for remote rituals.
- Use a video platform (Zoom, Skype).
- Set up an altar and invite participants.
- Prepare offerings and coordinate with the priest.
- Perform rituals and prayers online.
- Make donations and acts of charity.
- Record the ceremony for reference.
- Continue offerings throughout Pitru Paksha.
