Pitru Paksha draws to a close on the Amavasya of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Ashwin, widely observed as Ashwin Amavasya and Sarvapitri Amavasya. In traditional customs, rituals performed on this concluding new moon hold extraordinary spiritual importance. Performing Tarpan and Shraddh on this occasion is believed to satisfy the souls of all ancestors, bringing peace and blessings to the family lineage. For this reason, the day is also revered as Sarvapitri Moksha Amavasya. Families who do not recall the exact death anniversaries of their departed elders dedicate their offerings on this singular tithi. Furthermore, ancestors who passed away on either a Purnima or an Amavasya tithi are traditionally commemorated during this final congregation.
Concluding Date of Pitru Paksha and Auspicious Timings
In 2026, the fortnight of Pitru Paksha formally concludes on October 10. According to astrological calculations, the Amavasya tithi remains active until 9:19 PM at night. For conducting ancestral rites, specific auspicious windows have been outlined during the afternoon hours.
- Kutup Muhurat: Runs from 11:45 AM to 12:31 PM, making it an ideal period for rituals.
- Rohin Muhurat: Commences at 12:31 PM and extends until 01:18 PM.
- Aparahna Kaal: Spans from 01:18 PM to 03:37 PM, offering an auspicious stretch for Shraddh offerings and Brahmin feasts.
Commencement of Sharad Navratri and Kalash Sthapana
Immediately following the farewell to the ancestors, the auspicious festival of Sharad Navratri begins on Pratipada tithi of Ashwin Shukla Paksha. In 2026, the nine-day adoration of Goddess Durga commences on Sunday, October 11, and concludes on October 19. The grand celebration of Dussehra takes place the following day on October 20.
Devotees perform Ghatasthapana on the opening day within specific astrological windows
- Ghatasthapana Muhurat: Available in the morning from 06:19 AM to 10:12 AM.
- Ghatasthapana Abhijit Muhurat: Occurs between 11:44 AM and 12:31 PM.
- Pratipada Tithi Begins: October 10, 2026, at 09:19 PM.
- Pratipada Tithi Ends: October 11, 2026, at 09:30 PM.
- Chitra Nakshatra Begins: October 10, 2026, at 09:42 PM.
- Chitra Nakshatra Ends: October 11, 2026, at 10:32 PM.
- Vaidhriti Yoga Begins: October 10, 2026, at 10:02 PM.
- Vaidhriti Yoga Ends: October 11, 2026, at 09:05 PM.
