Ekadashi Shradh

Ancestor Worship (Shradh)

Not a public holiday; a significant religious observance within families.

One day (the day on which the Ekadashi Tithi prevails)

Performed to honor and pay respects to ancestors, especially those who passed away on an Ekadashi Tithi, or in specific cases like Sanyasis. It is believed to bring peace to the departed souls and blessings to the living descendants. It is one of the important Tithis during Pitru Paksha to perform Shradh.

Key Rituals & Practices

Tarpan (offering water with sesame seeds)

Pind Daan (offering rice balls)

Brahmin Bhoj (feeding Brahmins)

Offering food to cows, crows, dogs (considered representatives of ancestors)

Donations (Daan) to the needy

Reciting Pitru Suktam or other ancestral prayers

Associated Deities

Pitrus (Ancestors)

Yama (God of Death)

Vishnu (as presiding deity of Ekadashi)

Hindu Calendar Details

Hindu Month

During Pitru Paksha (typically Bhadrapada Krishna Paksha or Ashwin Krishna Paksha, depending on calendar system)

Paksha

Krishna Paksha

Tithi

Ekadashi

Historical & Mythological Context

Shradh rituals are deeply rooted in ancient Hindu scriptures like the Garuda Purana, Matsya Purana, and Agni Purana. Pitru Paksha, the fortnight dedicated to ancestors, finds mention in various Puranas and Smritis, emphasizing the duty of descendants to perform these rites for the liberation and peace of their ancestors' souls. Performing Shradh on Ekadashi, a day sacred to Vishnu, is considered highly auspicious and meritorious, combining the benefits of ancestor worship with devotion to Vishnu.

Alternative Names

Ekadashi Tithi Shradh

Ekadashi Pitru Paksha Shradh

Gregorian Date

Variable; occurs during Pitru Paksha (usually September/October) on the Ekadashi tithi. The exact date changes annually based on the lunar calendar.