Pitru Paksha Do’s & Don’ts: The Sacred Belief Behind Why You Shouldn’t Buy Clothes, Gold or Even a Broom This Fortnight

Pitru Paksha, also known as the fortnight of ancestors, is a special period in the Hindu lunar calendar when families remember and honor their departed loved ones. This year, Pitru Paksha began on 7 September 2025 and will continue until 21 September 2025, according to the Hindu calendar. During these 15 days, people perform rituals such as Shradh and Tarpan to offer prayers for the peace of their ancestors’ souls.

The word “pitru” means “ancestors,” and “paksha” means “fortnight.” Over these 15 days, families offer food, water, and prayers to their ancestors, believing it helps the souls attain peace and gives blessings to the living family members.

Each day of this period is considered equally sacred. Many households perform Shradh on specific tithis (lunar days) that match the death anniversary of their ancestors. Charity, feeding the needy, and offering prayers at home or in temples are also common practices during these days.

 This time is not just about rituals; it is also about following a satvik lifestyle, living simply, eating pure food, and avoiding actions that are believed to disturb the peace of ancestors. Along with certain food restrictions, there are also guidelines about things that should not be bought during this period.

Dos and Don’ts During Pitru Paksha

Hindu traditions advise living a simple and pure life during this time. People are encouraged to eat only satvik food and avoid items like meat, alcohol, garlic, and onion, which are considered tamasic (impure) in nature.

But it’s not just about food. There are also certain purchases that should be avoided, as they are believed to upset ancestors. Here’s what not to buy during Pitru Paksha:

• Iron or iron-made items: Buying iron objects is believed to bring bad luck and disturb the peace of ancestors.
• New clothes: Shopping for new clothes during these days is seen as inauspicious.
• Gold or silver jewelry: People avoid buying precious metals like gold or silver.
• Vehicles: Purchasing a new vehicle during this time is not recommended.
• Land or house: Buying property or land is also considered inauspicious.
• Shoes and slippers: Footwear should not be purchased during these 15 days.
• Items for weddings or celebrations: Anything meant for an upcoming marriage or auspicious event is best postponed.
• Brooms: Even buying a broom is considered unlucky during this fortnight.

These restrictions come from religious beliefs passed down through generations. Families believe that buying such items can anger the souls of ancestors or bring misfortune to the household.

Significance of Pitru Paksha

Pitru Paksha is not only about avoiding certain things but also about remembering and respecting one’s roots. The rituals performed, Shradh, Tarpan, and acts of charity, are believed to help liberate the souls of ancestors and give them satisfaction in the afterlife.

Hindus believe that when the departed souls are pleased, they bless their family with prosperity, good health, and protection from obstacles. It is also a time for the living to express gratitude, seek forgiveness for past mistakes, and strengthen the bond with their lineage.

Disclaimer: The practices and beliefs around Pitru Paksha are based on religious and folk traditions. There is no scientific proof to support these customs. The information here is shared for cultural understanding and not as a factual or scientific claim.