Pitru Paksha is underway, and during this period, ancestors are remembered, offered tarpan (offerings), and performed shraddha (shraadh). Pitru Paksha holds special significance in Hinduism. Religious belief holds that during this period, our ancestors return to Earth and stay there for fifteen days. To ensure peace and blessings for their souls, food and clothing are offered along with tarpan, pind daan, and shraddha (shraadh).

For those who die after reaching their full age, Shraddha is performed according to the date of their death. However, if a person dies young or suddenly, specific dates are designated for such individuals during Pitru Paksha. Shraddha and Tarpan are performed on these days. Certain religious rituals are also performed. It is believed that this brings peace to such ancestors and, through God's grace, salvation.

What is premature death?
A person who dies before reaching their full age is considered premature. Deaths that occur as a result of an accident, fire, a serious or terminal illness, poisoning, or suicide are considered premature.

What should be done during Pitru Paksha for a person who has died prematurely?

According to experts, if a family member has suffered an untimely death, one should read or listen to the greatness of the Shrimad Bhagavata Purana during the 15 days of Pitru Paksha. According to religious beliefs, doing so grants salvation to the departed soul.

During Pitru Paksha, there is a tradition of offering tarpan and performing shraddha for ancestors who died prematurely on the Chaturdashi Tithi. This shraddha is called Chaturdashi Shraddha. Chaturdashi Tithi is dedicated to Lord Shiva. There is a religious belief that even a person who is destined for an untimely death can attain a long life with the blessings of Lord Shiva.

Chaturdashi Shraddha on October 9th This year,
Chaturdashi Shraddha will be performed on October 9th. According to the Panchang, Chaturdashi Tithi will begin at 10:15 pm on October 8th and will last until 9:35 pm on October 9th. The Kutup Muhurta for Chaturdashi Shraddha is from 11:45 am to 12:31 pm. This Muhurta lasts for 47 minutes. After that, the Rauhi Muhurta will last from 12:31 pm to 1:18 pm, which is also 47 minutes.

On Chaturdashi Shraddha, bathe in the morning and take Ganga water in a copper vessel. Add the holy water and black sesame seeds to it. Then, remember the person who died prematurely and perform the Abhisheka of Lord Shiva with this water .

After this, pray to Lord Shiva that any family member who has died prematurely may attain salvation and receive the blessings of this puja. According to religious beliefs, this ritual helps bring peace to ancestors who have died prematurely.

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