India, Sept. 16 -- Pitru Paksha is a time when many families pause to remember and honor loved ones who have passed away. These 16 days are marked by rituals such as Shraddha and Tarpan, with water and food offered in remembrance of ancestors. If you are observing Pitru Paksha this year, knowing the dates, traditional timings and basic steps can help you follow the rituals with greater clarity.

Pitru Paksha is traditionally observed for 16 days to honor ancestors, also known as Pitr. According to Hindu belief, this is a period when ancestors are remembered through prayers and offerings made by their families.

Water and food offerings are traditionally believed to bring peace to departed souls and blessings of health and good fortune to ...