śrāddha

thumb|Rituals of Śrāddha in a Hindus|Hindu family Śrāddha (Sanskrit: श्राद्ध), is a period of time in the Hindu calendar during which Hindus perform rituals to pay homage to their pitṛs (ancestors). Taking part in specific rituals at this time is believed to provide peace to the ancestors in their afterlife. It is performed on the death anniversaries of the departed as per the Hindu Calendar. In addition it is also performed for the entire community of 'pitr' – both from paternal and maternal side – collectively during the Pitri Paksha or Shraaddha paksha ('fortnight of ancestors'), followed immediately by Sharad Navaratri in autumn. Śrāddha refers to a set of Hindu rites performed to honor, appease and nourish deceased ancestors (pitṛs) thus removing any imbalance or disturbance in the ancestral lineage. The rites typically include offerings of food (often riceballs called pinda), libations of water (tarpana), recitation of mantras, and gifts to Brahmins. Śrāddha is commonly observed during the fortnight of Pitru Paksha in the lunar month of Bhādrapada/Āśvina, as well as on individual death anniversaries (tithi śrāddha).

== Etymology == The Sanskrit word śrāddha derives from śraddhā (“faith, devotion”). In ritual parlance, it denotes acts performed “in faith” for ancestors, especially offerings of food and water intended for their welfare in the afterlife.