Pitru Paksha 2026: Donation of Black Sesame Seeds – Pitru Paksha begins on Sunday, September 27, and concludes on October 10 with Sarva Pitru Amavasya. During this period, rituals such as *Shraddha*, *Tarpan*, and charity hold special significance for the peace and salvation of ancestors' souls. Black sesame seeds are considered the most essential element in these rituals; it is believed that any *Shraddha*, *Tarpan*, or act of charity performed without them remains incomplete and fails to reach the ancestors.

Pitru Paksha is regarded as a time to remember and express reverence for one's ancestors. During these 15 days, people donate water, food, and clothing to appease their ancestors; however, according to the scriptures, the ancestors become displeased if black sesame seeds are not included in these rituals. Let us understand why the donation of black sesame seeds is mandatory during Pitru Paksha...

According to religious texts, black sesame seeds originated from the sweat of Lord Vishnu; hence, they are considered extremely sacred, and their use leads to the swift gratification of ancestors. Just as in any other worship ritual, the use of black sesame seeds is considered auspicious and essential in the rites performed during Pitru Paksha.

From an astrological perspective, black sesame seeds are directly linked to Saturn (*Shani*) and the shadow planets *Rahu* and *Ketu*. Donating black sesame seeds during *Shraddha* helps pacify *Pitru Dosh* (ancestral affliction) and *Shani Dosh* (affliction related to Saturn) present in one's horoscope. Furthermore, performing charity and *Tarpan* with them mitigates the adverse effects of *Shani's* *Sade Sati* and *Dhaiya* phases. This practice removes obstacles, brings happiness and prosperity, and fosters positivity in life.

Black sesame seeds possess the power to absorb negative energy and purify the atmosphere. Consequently, using them during Pitru Paksha sanctifies the ritual site and keeps evil forces at bay. During Pitru Paksha, offering water mixed with black sesame seeds (*til*) during *Tarpan* dispels surrounding negative energy and invokes the blessings of one's ancestors.

A widely held belief is that water and food offered without sesame seeds are consumed by malevolent spirits, whereas offerings made with black sesame seeds reach the ancestors directly, bringing satisfaction and salvation to their souls.

Scriptures state that whatever charity one performs during Pitru Paksha should be accompanied by a donation of black sesame seeds. Adding black sesame seeds to the *Tarpan* water and donating them to the needy is the simplest way to secure the blessings of one's ancestors.

Forgetting to donate black sesame seeds while performing *Shraddh* rituals during Pitru Paksha is considered a serious oversight. Without them, neither is the offering accepted nor are the ancestors satisfied; therefore, it is essential to observe this practice during this period.

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