Shradh or Shraddha is a Hindu ritual performed to pay homage to ones ancestors, especially to ones dead parents. The term Shradh means confidence, devotion and has originated from shraddha (faith) . The offerings (food, etc.) made with complete faith and accompanied by all the rites to the Brahmans as representatives of the pitars after pronouncing the place, time, and appropriate venue is termed as Shradh. The Shradh rites are conducted so that the journey of our parents after the demise is comfortable and stress-free. It is a way of expressing gratitude for what they are and for praying for the lost parents peace. The period of Shradh extends for around 15 days right before Sharad Navaratri in autumn. The Karta performs the Shradh rituals by inviting the Brahmanas and worshiping and feeding them. To protect and nourish the ancestors, a fire ritual called the "homa" is performed, and then balls of rice are offered to the departed souls. The offerings are made to three generations, and all the rituals must be performed with devotion, whole-heartedness, and respect towards the deceased.