Sorha Shraddha is observed during the waning phase of moon
in Ashoj Month (September – October). During this fortnight Hindus pay homage
to their dead ancestors (Pitrs). Food and water are offered to the departed
souls. Sorha Shraddha in Nepal in 2024 begins on September 19 and ends on October 2, 2024.
Sorha Shraddha means 16 Shraddha and refers to the fortnight
period. Sorha Shraddha is observed from purnima or full moon day to No moon day
or Amavasya in Ashoj Month.
Majority of Hindus does not hold auspicious functions during
the period.
Various different types of Shraddha are offered during the
fortnight.
The food offerings are prepared on the day in silver or
copper vessels. They are then placed on a banana leaf.
The person performing the Shraddha takes bath and wears a
ring made of Kusha grass on his ring finger.
Cooked rice mixed with ghee and black sesame seeds is
offered to ancestors and this is known as Pinda Daan. Water is offered on the
leaves during the ceremony.
During the ritual, Lord Vishnu is worshipped in the form of
Kusha grass. Shaigram and Yama, the Hindu god of death are also worshipped on
the day.
The offering is considered to be accepted if a crow arrives and
eats from it; the bird is believed to be a messenger from Yama.
Performing Annadanam or food donation during the period is
considered highly meritorious.
The ritual is known as Pitru Paksha in India.