Pitru Paksha is a 15-day period in the Hindu calendar that is dedicated to the memory of departed ancestors. During this time, Hindus from across India observe certain rituals, customs, and practices to pay their respects to their loved ones who have passed away. The following are some dos and donts to keep in mind during Pitru Paksha:

Dos:

• Observe celibacy
• Offer food, water, and gifts to deceased ancestors through priests and Brahmins
• Perform Tarpan, an essential ritual during Pitru Paksha, which should be conducted by the eldest son of the deceased
• Feed the poor and needy
• Observe fasts for one or more days during Pitru Paksha to purify the body and soul

Donts:

• Avoid using iron utensils and refrain from cutting hair or shaving the beard throughout the fifteen days of Pitru Paksha
• Postpone engagements, weddings, and housewarming rituals during this time of the year
• Avoid consumption of non-vegetarian food items, tobacco, and liquor
• Avoid acquiring new properties or luxury items until after Pitru Paksha
• Do not eat rice, non-veg, garlic, onions, and out-of-the-box during paternal side
• Do not use lentil, black urad, gram, black cumin, black salt, black gourd, and cucumber, mustard greens, etc.

It is important to note that the rituals and customs observed during Pitru Paksha may vary from region to region.