Overview

• The 16‑day observance concludes with Sarvapitri Amavasya (Mahalaya), when families make offerings if a loved one’s tithi is unknown.
• Common rites include a purification bath and Shraddha with Tarpan led customarily by the eldest son, simple satvik offerings to Brahmins, donations, and feeding cows, dogs and crows.
• Household guidance stresses satvik meals while avoiding meat, eggs, onion, garlic, alcohol, new ventures, hair or nail cutting, harsh speech, and food waste during the period.
• Some outlets note a lunar eclipse on September 7 and a solar eclipse on September 21 that are regarded by believers as adding spiritual potency to this year’s rites.
• Regional customs vary, with pilgrims gathering at Gaya’s ghats for Pitru Tarpan, and the fortnight leading into Navratri, which begins on September 22.