Dwadashi Shradh 2025 : The One Ritual You Shouldn't Miss for Your Ancestors This Year

During Pitru Paksha, the 16-day period when Hindus pay homage to their ancestors, Dwadashi Shradh holds a special significance. It's a day specifically for performing rituals for family members who passed away on the Dwadashi Tithi (the twelfth day of the lunar cycle).This year, Dwadashi Shradh will be observed onThursday, September 18, 2025.This day, also known as Baras Shradh, is a time for families to conduct ceremonies believed to bring peace to the souls of their ancestors.Why Dwadashi Shradh is ImportantDwadashi Shradh is particularly significant for honoring the souls of those who had takensanyasa (renunciation) before their passing.It is believed that performing these rituals with faith ensures the departed souls find peace and liberation, or ‘Moksha’ According to tradition, the souls of ancestors visit the Earth during Pitru Paksha, and these offerings are a way to show respect and seek their blessingsAuspicious Timings for the RitualsPerforming the Shradh rituals at the correct time is considered very important. For Dwadashi Shradh in 2025, the key timings are:Kutup Muhurat: 11:50 AM to 12:39 PMRohina Muhurat: 12:39 PM to 01:28 PMAparahna Kaal (Afternoon): 01:28 PM to 03:55 PMThese periods are believed to be the most auspicious for the ceremonies.How to Observe Dwadashi ShradhThe rituals are typically performed by a male member of the family. The main ceremonies include:Pind Daan: This central ritual involves offeringpindas, which are rice balls made from cooked rice, cow's milk, ghee, sugar, and honey.Tarpan: This is a ritual of offering water mixed with black sesame seeds to quench the spiritual thirst of the ancestors.Feeding Brahmins: It is customary to offer a specially prepared sattvik meal (pure vegetarian) to Brahmins, as it is believed that this offering reaches the ancestors.Offerings to Animals: Food is also given to cows, crows, dogs, and ants, as it is believed that ancestors may visit in any form.Charity: Donating food, clothes, and other essentials to those in need is also a significant part of the day's observance.By following these traditions with devotion, families seek blessings from their ancestors for peace, happiness, and prosperity.