Wed Sep 18 03:00:25 UTC 2024: ## श्राद्ध पक्ष Begins: First Day of Ancestral Rites Observed in Jodhpur
**Jodhpur, September 17 (HS):** The annual **Shraddha Paksha**, a period dedicated to honoring departed ancestors in Hindu tradition, commenced on Tuesday with the observance of **Poornami Shraddha**. The auspicious period, which starts on Anant Chaturdashi, will conclude on October 2nd with **Sarv Pitru Amavasya**, marking the end of the fortnight-long rituals.
The first day saw families performing **tarpan** (water offerings) at various water bodies across Jodhpur, including Rani Sar-Padam Sar, Kaylana, Minaka Nadi, and Gulab Sagar. These rituals are believed to appease the souls of departed ancestors and fulfill the “Pitru Rin” (debt owed to ancestors).
According to Hindu beliefs, the **Shraddha Paksha** is a time to perform **pind daan** (offering rice balls) and **tarpan** to fulfill the obligation towards ancestors. Pandits advise performing these rituals on the day the tithi (lunar date) reaches its peak, with this year’s Poornami Shraddha falling on Tuesday.
The period is also marked by strict adherence to traditional beliefs. **No auspicious events like housewarming ceremonies, ear piercing, tonsuring, marriages, or wearing new clothes are permitted during Shraddha Paksha**.
**Sarv Pitru Amavasya**, which falls on October 2nd, is considered a significant day for those unsure of their ancestors’ death dates. The **Shraddha Paksha** concludes on October 3rd with **Nan Shraddha**, marking the start of the nine-day **Navratra festival**.
While observing ancestral rituals, people also perform acts of charity and provide meals to Brahmins and offer food to crows and cows, signifying their respect and reverence for the departed.
Meanwhile, the BJP’s membership drive continues, with state president Dr. Arun Chaturvedi engaging in a “home-to-home” campaign in Jodhpur.
First Piper 