The lunar eclipse on 7 September 2025 holds great importance in astrology, as it occurs in the zodiac sign and Nakshatra of Shani Dev (Saturn). This will be a total lunar eclipse, visible in India. Interestingly, the same day also marks the beginning of Shradh Paksha (Pitru Paksha).
On this day, Purnima Shradh will be observed, which is also called Shraddhi Purnima or Prosthapadi Purnima Shradh. Shradh performed on this day is dedicated to those who passed away on a full moon date.
Important Timings
Purnima Tithi Begins - 1:41 AM
Purnima Tithi Ends - 11:38 PM
Sutak Period Begins - 12:57 PM
Kutup Muhurat for Shradh rituals - 11:54 AM to 12:44 PM
Since no religious rituals are performed during the Sutak period of an eclipse, Shradh rituals like Tarpan, Pind Daan, and Panch Bali should be completed earlier, preferably in Kutup Muhurat.
How to Perform the Rituals
1. Tarpan: Mix barley, black sesame seeds, and a red flower in water. Offer the water while facing south, chanting the special mantra with the name of your Gotra and ancestors.
Example mantra: Gotre Asmatpitamah (father's name) Vasurupat Tripyatamidam Tilodakam Ganga Jalam Va Tasmai Swadha Namah, Tasmai Swadha Namah, Tasmai Swadha Namah.
Offer water three times for each ancestor up to three generations.
Afterward, offer Jalanjali (water oblation) - 16 times east, 7 times north, 14 times south.
2. Pind Daan: Prepare rice balls (Pindas) by mixing rice, cow's milk, ghee, jaggery, and honey.
Usually, three Pindas are offered - for father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. If the father is alive, then for grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather.
Wearing the Janeu (sacred thread) on the right shoulder and facing south, offer each Pinda with the mantra: Idam pind (ancestor's name) tebhyah svadha.
After offering, immerse the Pindas in a river or holy water body.
3. Panch Bali: After Pind Daan, offer food to five beings, known as Panch Bali.
Gobali- Feed a cow
Shwan Bali- Feed a dog
Kaak Bali- Feed crows
Devadi Bali - Offer to Gods and Goddesses
Pipalikaadi Bali - Offer food near a Peepal tree for ants and other small creatures
Disclaimer: The content provided here is based on beliefs and information only. Always consult a concerned expert.
