The fortnight (15 days) preceding the Navaratri/Dasara or the second half “Krishna Paksha” of Bhadrapada Masa is called Pitru Paksha also known as Mahalaya Paksha. This period is important for honoring our ancestors. This year it falls on the following days in the United States and India.
I was talking to my Father and he said this is the period where you remember all people who have made some impact in your life, relatives, friends, well wishers who have departed this world, and you have no way to convey your thanks, gratitude to them, and this is the time to offer your tarpana and say Thanks to them. Such noble thoughts. The person doesn’t have to be just your father or mother, anyone who is not in this world and you know them. Our religion is just awesome. We just have to know the real meaning of why we do certain rituals.
No functions such as upanayanam, marriage, gruhapravesha, engagement or any such activities performed during these 15 days. These 15 days are totally dedicated to our ancestors.
Pitru Paksha – Mahalaya Paksha :September 21st – October 5th 2021
There are many resources available online to assist in giving tarpana and doing shradha for the departed souls of ones family. Attached below are all the links.
If you have any resource, please share.
Ms. Anuradha found this information about Pithru paksha on twitter by a person Bhargava sharma @bhargavasarma. Sharing it here. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1H_BW4EVVOs2cTqh8jTaHy68y4Y2Q4m1h/view
P.S: Please refer to dates in your country, and check with elders or temple priests.
Kalpavriksha Kamadhenu 
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