When Is Sarva Pitru Amavasya 2026? Date, Tithi, Time, Puja Rituals | Last Day To Honour Your Ancestors

Sarva Pitru Amavasya, a significant Hindu observance for remembering departed ancestors, will occur on October 10, 2026. Also known as Mahalaya Amavasya and Pitru Visarjani Amavasya, this day signifies the end of the 16-day Pitru Paksha period, during which families honor their ancestors through prayers and rituals. The timing of the Amavasya tithi for Sarva Pitru Amavasya in 2026 begins at 9:35 PM IST on Friday, October 9, and ends at 9:19 PM IST on Saturday, October 10.

The importance of Sarva Pitru Amavasya lies in acknowledging the role of ancestors in shaping the lives of their descendants. This day provides an opportunity to honor all ancestors collectively, particularly when the specific tithi of a deceased family member is uncertain or when the family was unable to perform Shraddha rituals earlier in the fortnight.

Rooted in the Sanskrit term "shraddha," which embodies faith and sincerity, the observance entails prayers, water offerings, food, and charitable acts to express gratitude and remember the values and traditions passed down through generations.

Traditional Puja rituals for Sarva Pitru Amavasya include taking a holy bath and offering prayers, performing Tarpan by offering water and black sesame seeds to ancestors, conducting Shraddha ceremonies, and preparing food and making offerings in remembrance of departed loved ones. Regional customs, family traditions, and individual circumstances may influence specific practices, but the essence of expressing gratitude, remembrance, and spiritual merit remains central to this significant Hindu observance.