Tritiya Shraddha is performed for those ancestors who passed away on the Tritiya Tithi (third lunar day) of the lunar month. In Hinduism, each lunar day holds special significance, and Shraddha rituals are performed on different dates to bring peace to the departed souls. The purpose of Tritiya Shraddha is to offer respect and homage to those ancestors who left the world on this particular date.
When is Tritiya Shraddha?
In 2025, Tritiya Shraddha will be observed on Wednesday, 10th September.
According to the Panchang, this Tithi begins on 9th September at 6:28 PM and ends on 10th September at 3:37 PM.
Why is Tritiya Shraddha performed?
- Peace for ancestors’ souls: The main objective of Tritiya Shraddha is to provide peace to the souls of ancestors who passed away on this date. Performing it satisfies their souls and brings their blessings for harmony in the family.
- Satisfaction of ancestors: According to Hindu belief, during Pitru Paksha, the souls of ancestors descend to Earth to receive Tarpan and Shraddha from their descendants. Through Tritiya Shraddha, such ancestors are pleased, which ensures prosperity and happiness in the family.
- Reverence and respect: This ritual is a way of expressing gratitude and respect towards one’s ancestors. Offering pure food, water, and clothes symbolizes honor and prayers for their peace.
Procedure of Tritiya Shraddha:
- Shraddha rituals: Ancestors are offered food, water, and clothes with devotion. The food usually includes sesame seeds, rice, pulses, and ghee.
- Tarpan: Water mixed with sesame seeds is offered. It can be done on a sacred riverbank or at home.
- Pind Daan: Balls made from rice, barley, and sesame are prepared and offered in the name of the ancestors.
- Feeding and charity to Brahmins: Feeding Brahmins with pure vegetarian food and offering them clothes, money, or other essentials is considered highly auspicious.
Special Significance of Tritiya Shraddha:
- Auspicious Timings (Muhurat):
- Abhijit Muhurat – Midday, highly auspicious for Shraddha.
- Kutup Muhurat – Specific solar period, considered best for rituals.
- Rohini Muhurat – Based on date and nakshatra, also auspicious for Shraddha.
- Meditation on Lord Vishnu (Lakshmipati):
During Tritiya Shraddha, meditating on Lord Vishnu helps ancestors attain liberation and peace. - Recitation of the Third Chapter of the Gita:
Chapter 3 of the Bhagavad Gita (Karma Yoga) emphasizes the importance of action. Reciting it during Shraddha benefits both the ancestors and the performer spiritually.
Mantras to Please Ancestors:
- Om Pitru Devatāyai Namah
- Om Pitr̥gaṇāya Vidmahe Jagat Dhāriṇi Dhīmahi Tanno Pitr̥ḥ Pracodayāt
Spiritual Significance of Tritiya Shraddha:
- Peace and satisfaction for the souls of ancestors.
- Establishes spiritual balance and positive energy in the family.
- Expression of gratitude and reverence towards forefathers.
- Preservation of traditions and religious faith.
- Ancestors’ blessings bring prosperity, harmony, and success in family life.