PITHRU PAKSHA - Why only during Bhadrapada Maasam?

Actually oblation to Pithrus is prescribed to be performed on a daily basis through...

> Brahma Yagna;
> Shannavathi;
> Parva kaala (Uttaraayana; Dakshinaayana; Eclipse etc.);
> Pithru Paksha (Bhaadrapada maasam);
> Annual ceremony;
> Theertha/kshethra sraaddha etc.,

Out of which the one during Pithru Paksha is given greater prominence.

As we approach towards middle of Bhaadrapada Masam as per Hindu Lunar Calendar, it is time to worship the departed souls (forefathers).

This worship is held for a period of 15 days during the waning period (dark period) of Moon in the second fortnight called as Krishna (Bahula) Paksha of Bhaadrapada Masam that generally occurs during the months of September–October every year.

The period of 15 days starting from Bhaadrapada Bahula Prathama to Bhaadrapada Bahula Amaavaasya is called,

> Pithru Paksha or Apara Paksha or Paksha Maasa;

around which time Sun would be transiting in Kanya (Virgo) Raasi.

" Kanyagathe Savithari Aaashaadyaadhi
PanchamahaApara Paksheshu Asmin Pithru Pakshe.....

Fifth fortnight after Aashaada Pournami when Sun is transiting in Kanya Raasi is reckoned as Pithru Paksha;

This period is totally dedicated, earmarked and most appropriate time for worshiping the departed souls (forefathers).

Pithru Paksha occurs during Dakshinaayana; also known as Pithraayana;

Dakshinaayana represents Pithrus.

It is believed that Pithrus descend on Earth during Pithru Paksha in anticipation of their progeny perform sacred rites enabling them to attain better placement in other worlds.

During which time the abode of Pithrus would remain vacant as Yama DharmaRaja allows the departed souls to descend on to their respective locations on Earth to reap the benefits of Sraaddha Karma by their descendants;

Significance is given during this period for performing Pithru related activities. It is the most auspicious time to pay our obeisance and salutations to forefathers.

Hence, it is specifically referred to as Pithru Paksha which is very dear to Pithrus.

As per Kaalaganana (time element) one month for human beings is equivalent to one day for Pithru Devathas out of which;
Sukla Paksha (waxing moon days) 15 days is the day time and Krishna Paksha (waning moon days) 15 days is the night time for Pithrus.

It is believed and said that sacred rites like,
Thila Tharpana and Pinda Pradhana (offering of rice balls) performed during Pithru Paksha acts as food for the departed souls that would be adequate for them throughout the year.

It is said that during one of the occasions of Deva-Asura Sangrama (war between Deities and Demons) large number of Devathas and Rishis had died at the hands of Raakshasas starting from Bhadrapada Bahula Prathama (Paadyami) to Amaavaasya.

This fortnight is also known as Mahalaya Pithru Paksha;

These Deities and Rishis are like our forefathers and it is befitting to worship the departed souls during this fortnight that coincides with Mahalaya.

Pithru Paksha also coincides with Chaaturmaasam the most sacred period for worshiping both Deities as well as Pithrus.
These four months of Chaturmasa including Bhadrapada are very holy and dear to the Supreme God - Hari Sarvottama.

Who ever performs sacred deeds during these months would reap immense benefits out of it.

Samastha PithruAntharyaami Sri MahaVishnu Preetyartham....

Sri Krushnaarpanamasthu
Hari Sarvottama - Vaayu Jeevottama
Sri GururaajoVijayate