Pitra Paksha-the fortnight of the ancestors
Starting on the day of the full Moon
(purnima), September 29, the observance of Pitra Paksha is being observed,
continuing through the fortnight of the waning Moon and ending at the new Moon
on October 15. Pitru Paksha means “fortnight of the ancestors” and the general
idea is to honor the generations that have preceded you and departed from this
world. The rituals and customs surrounding this giving of honor to the
ancestors are quite complex and specific, but we can perhaps observe the idea
in a simple way by remembering our ancestors and grandparents, especially by
offering them a small portion of your food on a separate plate before you eat
during this time. Feeding the hungry is another way of observing Pitru Paksha.
Donations to food banks or offering a meal to a person in need are other
options, especially on the final day of the observation, which is October 14,
amavasya, the day leading up to the moment of the new Moon
Comments
Post a Comment