Magha Shraddha 2016

Magha Shraddha is done during Pitru Paksha when Magha Nakshatra prevails during Aparahana Kal. If Magha Nakshatra prevails partially during Aparahana Kal on two days then the day when it prevails for longer duration it considered.

If both Magha Nakshatra and Trayodashi Tithi prevail during Aparahana on the same day then it is known as Magha Trayodashi Shraddha.

Nakshatra Magha is significant during Pitru Paksha because it is ruled by Pitrus (पितृ), the spirits of the departed ancestors.

Pitru Paksha Shraddhas are Parvan Shraddhas (पार्वण श्राद्ध) and auspicious time to perform them is either Kutup Muhurat and Rohina etc. Muhurat after that till Aparahana Kaal gets over. Tarpan (तर्पण) is done at the end of the Shraddha.