New Delhi: A day ahead of the beginning of Pitru Paksha this year, it becomes necessary to talk about this period, right? As per the Hindu Calendar, Pitru Paksha, this year, will begin on September 10 and will be continued till September 25. For those unversed, Pitru Paksha or Shradh is a 15-day period which is considered holy by Hindus. During this period, Hindus from all over the nation pay respect to their ancestors and remember them. In order to pay homage to the respective ancestors, it is mandatory for every individual to follow a disciplined daily routine. Moreover, there are many restrictions and rules to abide by. While the people perform rituals like Shradh, Tarpan and Pind Daan for the departed souls of the family, they also have to follow a strict diet and avoid consuming some food items. Needless to say, one must not consume non-vegetarian food and alcohol during this holy period of Pitru Paksha but there are many other food items which you should avoid during these 15 days.
While the above mentioned food items are strictly prohibited, Masoor Dal also cannnot be consumed by someone who is following the rituals of Shradh. Not only Masoor Dal, Chickpeas and split lentils are also a big no during Masoor Dal. Chane Sattu and Black Urad Dal should also be avoided.
It is pertinent to note that food has its own significance in Pitru Paksha. Thus, it becomes manadatory for us to take care of what we consume, what we cook and what we offer to our ancestors during this period.