About Shraddham (Annual Tithi)
What is Shraddham (Annual Tithi)?
Shraddham (Taddinam, Shradh, Thithi) is the annual rite for a departed parent or relative, done on their death tithi with pinda pradanam, tila tarpanam and the feeding of Brahmins, so that the ancestor is satisfied for the year.
The shraddham is done by the son (or a relative) every year on the lunar tithi of death, not the calendar date. The pandit calculates the tithi, performs the pitru avahanam and guides the pindas, tarpanam and the Brahmana bhojanam or swayampakam.
Benefits
- Peace and satisfaction of the departed
- Fulfils the family’s duty
- Blessings of the ancestors and relief from pitru dosha
When to perform
- Every year on the death tithi
- Mahalaya Paksha for those who also do the fortnight rite
How Shraddham (Annual Tithi) is performed
- Sankalpam
- Pitru avahanam
- Homam (where followed)
- Pinda pradanam
- Tila tarpanam
- Brahmana bhojanam or swayampakam, dakshina and dana
Shraddham (Annual Tithi) samagri list
- Black sesame and darbha grass
- Rice, ghee and honey for pindas
- Food or raw items for Brahmana bhojanam
- New dhoti or clothes for dana
- Banana leaves
Do’s and don’ts
✅ Do
- Tell the pandit the death tithi (or date) when booking
❌ Avoid
- Avoid onion and garlic in the food
Shraddham near you
Read the full guide to Shraddham — meaning, vidhi, samagri, best time and cost — or see local details for your city.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Shraddham (Annual Tithi) cost?
Shraddham (Annual Tithi) with a verified Stuti Mandir pandit starts from ₹4,100 as pandit dakshina, for about 2 to 2.5 hours. The price can be a little higher outside the metro cities, live video pujas cost less than a home visit, and the full bill is shown before you pay.
How is the shraddham date calculated?
By the lunar tithi of death in the same lunar month each year. Give us the date of death and the pandit tells you this year’s date.
Can a daughter perform the shraddham?
Customs differ; many families today allow it. Tell the pandit your situation and he will guide you.