Every year, in the dark fortnight of the month of Ashwin, Hindu families observe Pitru Paksha — sixteen days dedicated to remembering and honouring their ancestors (pitra) through shraddh and tarpan.
What is Pitra Dosh?
In Jyotish, Pitra Dosh is associated with afflictions to the Sun (which represents the father and lineage) and the 9th house (ancestors, fortune and dharma) — for example when the Sun or the 9th lord is joined or aspected by Rahu, Ketu or Saturn. It is traditionally linked with obstacles in progress, delays in family matters, or repeated difficulties despite effort.
As always, one combination does not define a life; the whole chart and the running dasha must be seen together.
Traditional remedies
- Shraddh and tarpan on the tithi of the departed ancestor during Pitru Paksha.
- Feeding Brahmins, cows, crows and dogs, and giving food and clothes to the needy.
- Offering water to the Sun every morning and to a Peepal tree on Saturdays.
- Reading the Gita, or organising a Pitra Dosh Nivaran Puja at a sacred place.
The heart of every remedy is gratitude — remembering those whose blessings we carry.
For guidance on the right tithi and puja for your family, contact the Kendra.
