Why will two rare eclipses occur during Pitri Paksha 2025 and what is their significance?
By Pt. Suvrat Sharma
After 100 years, Pitri Paksha begins and ends with eclipses. Know dates and important rules
Table of Contents
Pitri Paksha, also called Shraddh fortnight, is one of the most sacred periods in Hindu tradition. During this time, families remember and honor their ancestors through Shraddh, Pind Daan and Tarpan. It is believed that these rituals grant peace to departed souls and bring prosperity and harmony to the household.
What are the dates of Pitri Paksha 2025?
Start Date: 7 September 2025, Sunday
End Date: 21 September 2025, Sunday
Throughout this fortnight, Hindus perform Shraddh rituals, offer food and make donations in the name of their forefathers.
Why is Pitri Paksha 2025 considered extraordinary?
The year 2025 is significant because, after nearly a century, Pitri Paksha will begin and end with major celestial events. This rare occurrence increases the spiritual importance of this fortnight.
Which eclipses will occur during Pitri Paksha 2025?
When is the Lunar Eclipse 2025?
- Date: 7 September 2025
- Time: 9:58 PM to 1:26 AM
- Visibility: This eclipse will be visible in India
- During this time, the moon will appear blood red, known as the Blood Moon.
When is the Solar Eclipse 2025?
- Date: 21 September 2025
- Time: 10:59 PM to 3:23 AM
- Visibility: This eclipse will not be visible in India as it occurs at night.
What are Sutak rules during eclipses?
Whenever an eclipse is visible in India, the Sutak period is observed. It begins 9 hours before the eclipse and ends once the eclipse is over.
What should not be done during Sutak?
- Do not visit temples.
- Do not cook or consume food.
- Do not perform Shraddh or rituals.
- Pregnant women should avoid going outdoors.
What should be done after the eclipse ends?
- Take a purifying bath and then offer food and donations.
- Perform Pind Daan and Tarpan with devotion.
- Feed Brahmins and the needy.
Dos and Don’ts of Pitri Paksha 2025
| Recommended practices | Prohibited practices |
|---|---|
| Performing Shraddh, Pind Daan and Tarpan | Auspicious or celebratory events |
| Feeding Brahmins and giving donations | Visiting temples during eclipse |
| Offering food and water to ancestors | Cooking or eating during eclipse |
| Reading sacred scriptures | Beginning new ventures |
Significance of Pitri Paksha 2025
This Pitri Paksha is not only a sacred time for Shraddh but also a witness to rare celestial alignments. After a century, its beginning coincides with a lunar eclipse and its conclusion with a solar eclipse. Those who follow rituals with devotion during this time will receive blessings from their ancestors leading to peace, prosperity and growth in life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When does Pitri Paksha 2025 start and end?
It will begin on 7 September and end on 21 September 2025.
Will both eclipses be visible in India?
The lunar eclipse will be visible in India but the solar eclipse will not.
When does Sutak begin?
Sutak begins 9 hours before the eclipse and ends once the eclipse concludes.
Can Shraddh rituals be performed during an eclipse?
No, Shraddh or religious rituals should not be performed during the eclipse period.
What rituals are recommended after the eclipse ends?
Bathing, offering food, donations and performing Pind Daan and Tarpan for ancestors are considered auspicious.
