Mahalaya Shraddha
Mahalaya Shraddha in Hindu Tradition
Mahalaya Shraddha is a significant ancestral ritual in Hindu tradition, performed during Pitru Paksha, the fortnight dedicated to honoring ancestors. It is believed that during this period, the Pitru (ancestors) descend to the earthly realm to receive offerings from their descendants.
Mahalaya Shraddha is prescribed in Hindu scriptures such as the Garuda Purana, Brahma Purana, and Dharmashastra texts, and is observed across India with regional variations.
Meaning of “Mahalaya Shraddha”
Mahalaya – Great abode or great resting place (referring to the ancestral realm)
Shraddha – A ritual performed with faith and devotion in remembrance of ancestors
Thus, Mahalaya Shraddha refers to the Shraddha rituals performed collectively for all ancestors during the Pitru Paksha period.
When Mahalaya Shraddha is Performed
Mahalaya Shraddha is performed during Pitru Paksha (the dark fortnight of the month of Bhadrapada / Ashwin)
It may be performed on:
The death tithi of a specific ancestor, or
Mahalaya Amavasya (Sarva Pitru Amavasya), when Shraddha is performed for all ancestors together
Purpose of Mahalaya Shraddha
The ritual is performed for the following purposes:
To honor and remember all ancestors (Pitru) collectively
To offer Pind Daan and Tarpan for ancestral peace
To seek blessings of ancestors for family welfare
To remove ancestral dissatisfaction and Pitru-related obstacles
To fulfill filial duty (Pitru Runa) toward ancestors
Rituals Performed in Mahalaya Shraddha
Common rituals include:
Pind Daan:
Offering of rice balls to all ancestors.Tarpan:
Offering of water mixed with sesame seeds and sacred mantras.Shraddha Vidhi:
Recitation of mantras invoking all paternal and maternal ancestors.Brahmin Bhojan:
Feeding of Brahmins in honor of the Pitru.Daan (Charity):
Donation of food, clothes, grains, or money in the name of ancestors.
Difference Between Varsh Shraddha and Mahalaya Shraddha
Varsh Shraddha is performed individually for a specific ancestor
Mahalaya Shraddha is performed collectively for all ancestors
Varsh Shraddha follows the death anniversary, while Mahalaya Shraddha follows the Pitru Paksha calendar
Spiritual Significance
Mahalaya Shraddha holds deep spiritual importance:
It ensures satisfaction (tripti) of all ancestors
It strengthens ancestral bonds and lineage continuity
It is believed to remove Pitru-related obstacles
It brings peace, prosperity, and protection to the family
Important Places for Mahalaya Shraddha
Mahalaya Shraddha is commonly performed at sacred pilgrimage sites such as:
Ramkund (Nashik)
Trimbakeshwar (Maharashtra)
Gaya (Bihar)
Haridwar and Prayagraj
Varanasi (Kashi)
Other Puja:
Puja at Nashik: