Pitru Paksha 2026: Do Ancestors Need Shraddha Rituals? Astrologer Ajit V Khawad Explains

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As Pitru Paksha 2026 approaches, many families turn to traditional Shraddha rituals to remember and honour relatives who have passed away. But does honouring ancestors begin and end with performing these rituals? Vastu and astrology expert Ajit V Khawad offers a perspective that places remembrance, gratitude and intention at the heart of the observance.

Pitru Paksha is a significant period in the Hindu calendar dedicated to remembering and honouring ancestors. Observed over approximately 16 lunar days, this period is traditionally associated with gratitude, remembrance and respect for those who came before us.

Is Pitru Paksha Only About Rituals?

Vastu and astrology expert Ajit V Khawad explains that Pitru Paksha should not be viewed only through the lens of rituals. At its heart, it is a time to acknowledge one's roots and remember the people whose lives contributed to the generations that followed.

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Pitru Paksha falls during the waning phase of the Moon and concludes with Sarva Pitru Amavasya, also known as Mahalaya Amavasya. The final day holds particular significance for remembering ancestors.

For many families, this period is an opportunity to pause and think about parents, grandparents and other relatives who have passed away. It can also be a time to recall their lives, values, stories and the lessons they left behind. "Whether we talk about our ancestors or remember them, the most important thing is the feeling behind it," he says.

Pitru Paksha Practices And Their Significance

Speaking about practices associated with this period, Khawad says that caring for certain trees is also considered meaningful.

"During Pitru Paksha, people can water the peepal and bargad trees. These trees have a special significance in our traditions and are associated with ancestors. When you offer water to them with respect and remember your ancestors, the importance is not just in the act itself but also in the feeling and intention behind it," he says.

His explanation places emphasis not only on what people do during Pitru Paksha, but also on the intention with which they observe these traditions. This makes the period an opportunity to reflect on one's relationship with family history and the generations that came before.

Remembering Ancestors Beyond Shraddha Rituals

The significance of Pitru Paksha therefore extends beyond following a set of practices. It encourages people to recognise the connection between different generations and acknowledge what they have inherited from those who came before them.

It can also become a meaningful family tradition. Older members of the family may share stories about relatives whom younger generations never had the opportunity to meet. In this way, memories and family histories continue to be passed down.

Ajit believes that the period should be approached with respect rather than fear. "Remembering ancestors is ultimately about expressing gratitude and recognising the role they played in shaping the family," he ended.

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Pitru Paksha 2026: Keeping The Memory Of Ancestors Alive

Pitru Paksha in 2026 can therefore be a time to look beyond the ritual itself and reflect on the people, memories and values that connect one generation to another. While Shraddha and other traditional practices remain an important part of how many families observe the period, Khawad's perspective highlights the significance of remembrance and the intention behind these acts. Ultimately, honouring ancestors can also mean keeping their stories alive and recognising the place they continue to hold in family history.