Pitru Devatas (Ancestral Spirits) — Puja Vidhi
Shradh Puja Vidhi
Complete step-by-step procedure for Shradh Puja. Follow this correct Vedic method to perform the puja at home or at a temple.
Last updated: 23 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Step-by-Step Shradh Puja Vidhi
- 1
Take a ritual bath and wear clean white or unstitched clothes.
- 2
Face south (direction of the Pitrus).
- 3
Offer tarpan — mix sesame seeds in water and pour southward three times while reciting the ancestors' names.
- 4
Prepare pind (cooked rice mixed with sesame and honey) and offer them on kusha grass.
- 5
Feed crows, cows, and dogs before eating yourself.
- 6
Invite and feed a Brahmin.
- 7
Perform the ritual annually on the ancestor's death tithi or during Pitru Paksha.
Important Rules During Shradh Puja
• Maintain cleanliness — bath before the puja and wear clean clothes.
• Face east or north while performing the puja.
• Keep mobile phones and distractions away during the ritual.
• Women during menstruation should not participate in the main ritual.
• Perform puja with a focused and devotional mind.
• Do not leave the puja incomplete once started.
Benefits of Shradh Puja
Frees ancestral souls from karmic debts and grants them moksha, removes Pitru Dosha from the family horoscope, brings peace and prosperity to the living descendants, ensures protection from ancestral curses, and improves fertility, health, and fortune of the family lineage.
FAQ — Shradh Puja Vidhi
Q.Can I perform Shradh Puja at home?
Yes, Shradh Puja can be performed at home. Take a ritual bath and wear clean white or unstitched clothes.
Q.How long does Shradh Puja take?
Shradh Puja typically takes 2–3 hours. The duration may vary based on the number of participants and whether a pandit is involved.
Q.Do I need a pandit for Shradh Puja?
Shradh Puja can be performed by the family head with guidance. However, for complex rituals, it is recommended to have an experienced pandit guide the procedure.
Q.What is the best time to perform Shradh Puja?
Death anniversary tithi of the ancestor, or any day during Pitru Paksha (16-day period in Bhadrapada/Ashvin). Kutup muhurta (midday) is most auspicious for Shradh.