Definition of Shraddha
In Hindu scriptures, Shraddha is a sacred ritual practiced for centuries to honor and express gratitude toward ancestors and forefathers. Following a person's passing, offerings such as yogurt, sweets, fresh fruits, food grains, clean water, and clothing are donated in their memory to ensure their peace and contentment.
The Seven Sacred Elements of Shraddha
Seven specific elements hold supreme spiritual significance during the ritual. Their presence is said to purify the offerings and bring immense satisfaction to the departed souls:
- Ganga Jal: Sacred water to purify the ritual space and offerings.
- Milk: Symbolizes purity, nourishment, and peace.
- Madhu (Honey): Represents sweetness, harmony, and eternal satisfaction.
- Unstitched Cloth (Linga Cloth): Offered as respectful attire for the ancestors.
- Dohitra (Daughter's Son): The presence of a grandson brings special blessings to the ceremony.
- Kutapa: Refers to the auspicious afternoon period (Kutapa Muhurta), sacred kusha grass, or a wool blanket used during the rites.
- Til (Sesame Seeds): Used to ward off negative energies and ensure the offerings reach the ancestors.
Significance of Tulsi and Brahmin Feast
- The Power of Tulsi: Offering Tulsi (Holy Basil) leaves is essential. The sacred fragrance of Tulsi leaves placed on the food plate is believed to instantly satisfy the ancestors and Brahmins.
- Path to Liberation: According to scriptural belief, through these devout offerings, the soul attains salvation, ascends upon Garuda, and reaches Vishnu Loka (the abode of Lord Vishnu).
Auspicious Grains, Ingredients & Fruits for Offerings
To ensure the ritual is fruitful, specific traditional food items, grains, and fruits are recommended:
- Grains & Staples: Black gram (Urad), sesame seeds (Til), barley (Jau), rice, and wheat.
- Dairy & Sweets: Pure milk, all milk preparations, honey, sugar, and camphor (Kapur).
- Fruits & Produce: Amla, grapes, jackfruit, pomegranate, walnuts, coconut, dates, oranges, plums, betel nut, ginger, jamun, peepal fruits, cinnamon, and chilli.
|
Date |
Tithi |
Start Time |
End Time |
|
26-9-2026 |
Purnima |
5-30AM |
22:18 |
|
27-9-2026 |
Prathama |
“Do” |
20:58 |
|
28-9-2026 |
Dvitiya |
-do- |
19:13 |
|
29-9-2026 |
Tritiya |
-do- |
17:10 |
|
30-9-2026 |
Chaturthi |
-do- |
14:55 |
|
01-10-2026 |
Panchami |
-do- |
!2:35 |
|
02-10-2026 |
Shashti |
-do- |
10:15 |
|
02-10-2026&03-10 |
Saptami |
10:16 /08 AM |
08-00 |
|
03-10-2026 |
AshtamiS.MahaLax |
08-01 |
Till night |
|
04-10-2026 |
Navami |
5-30 |
27:54 |
|
05-10-2026 |
Dashami |
-do- |
26:07 |
|
06-10-2026 |
Ekadashi |
-do- |
24:34 |
|
07-10-2026 |
Dwadashi |
-do- |
23:16 |
|
08-10-2026 |
Trayodashi |
-do- |
22:16 |
|
09-10-2026 |
Chaturdashi |
-do- |
21:36 |
|
10-10-2026 |
Amavasya |
-do- |
21:19 |
|
Date |
Tithi |
Start Time |
End Time |
|
26-9-2026 |
Purnima |
5-30AM |
22:18 |
|
27-9-2026 |
Prathama |
“Do” |
20:58 |
|
28-9-2026 |
Dvitiya |
-do- |
19:13 |
|
29-9-2026 |
Tritiya |
-do- |
17:10 |
|
30-9-2026 |
Chaturthi |
-do- |
14:55 |
|
01-10-2026 |
Panchami |
-do- |
!2:35 |
|
02-10-2026 |
Shashti |
-do- |
10:15 |
|
02-10-2026&03-10 |
Saptami |
10:16 /08 AM |
08-00 |
|
03-10-2026 |
AshtamiS.MahaLax |
08-01 |
Till night |
|
04-10-2026 |
Navami |
5-30 |
27:54 |
|
05-10-2026 |
Dashami |
-do- |
26:07 |
|
06-10-2026 |
Ekadashi |
-do- |
24:34 |
|
07-10-2026 |
Dwadashi |
-do- |
23:16 |
|
08-10-2026 |
Trayodashi |
-do- |
22:16 |
|
09-10-2026 |
Chaturdashi |
-do- |
21:36 |
|
10-10-2026 |
Amavasya |
-do- |
21:19 |
