Shradh or Shraddha is an important ritual and tradition followed in Hinduism to pacify souls of departed ancestors. It is a yearly ritual which must be followed in order to live a peaceful life. But what is Shradh and why do we perform Shradh Puja? When and how did it begin?
Shradh is performed in the Pitru Paksha days. Pitru Paksha is a 15-days long period during which Hindus pay tribute to their departed family members and ancestors. Food is offering in the Shradh rituals. In 2017, Shradh begins from 05th September and ends on 19th September.
In Garuda Purana, it is said that 13 days after the death of an individual, their soul starts its journey to Yamalok or Yamapuri. It takes a total of 17 days to reach there. The soul then travels through Yamapuri for 11 months. It is only in the 12th month that the soul reaches the court of Yamraj.
During the 11 months, the soul has no food and water as it has no access. Therefore, Pind daan and Tarpan are done to satisfy the hunger and thirst of the departed soul. This ritual is done by the eldest son or other family members. This ritual is very important in the first year of the death of the ancestor or family member.