Hinduism- The Way of Life

Mahalaya Paksha- What Should We Do? Mahalaya Paksha in a nutshell Mahalaya Paksha literally means "fortnight of the ancestors". It is a 16 lunar day period wherein Hindus pay homage to their ancestors (Pitru), especially through food offerings. Pitru Paksha is considered by Hindus to be inauspicious, given the death rite performed during the ceremony, known as Shraddha or tarpan. The Mahalaya Paksha begins with the full moon day (Purnima) that occurs immediately after the Ganesh festival and ending with the new moon day known as Sarvapitri Amavasya, Mahalaya Amavasya or simply Mahalaya. The autumnal equinox falls within this period, I.e the Sun transitions from the northern to the southern hemisphere during this period.  What are we supposed to do at home? From the first day of the paksha to the last day that falls on Mahalaya Amavasya try to ensure that the Kamakshi Vilakku is lighted up 24 hours. Before doing so make sure the lamp is cleaned and a...

Mahalaya Paksha According to ancient Hindu texts, on Mahalaya Amavasya, there is a conjunction of the sun and the moon and that the sun enters the sign Virgo (Kanya). On this day, it is believed that ancestors leave their abode and come down to the world of mortals and occupy the houses of their descendants. Hindus offer oblation of water to the departed on every new-moon day. The prescribed rites are also performed every year on the death anniversary. This is the Sraddha ceremony. The special importance of these observances particularly during Mahalaya is that such ceremonies done during this fortnight have a very special effect. The offerings reach the departed souls immediately and directly, due to a boon from Lord Yama. The dark fortnight of Aswayuja (September-October) is known as the Mahalaya Paksha or the fortnight especially sacred for offering oblations to the departed ancestors. The last day of this period, the new moon day, is considered as the most important day in...