Matru Navami 2026: During Pitru Paksha, the day of Matru Navami is considered especially significant for performing *Shraddha* (rituals to honor ancestors) for female ancestors. According to religious beliefs, this day is dedicated to performing *Shraddha* and *Tarpan* (offering water) for deceased mothers, grandmothers, maternal grandmothers, and other female ancestors. Along with expressing reverence for ancestors, there is a tradition of observing certain rules on this day.

This year, Matru Navami will be observed on October 4. If a female ancestor's *Shraddha* is performed in your family on this day, special care should be taken regarding certain matters during the worship and rituals. It is believed that maintaining *Sattvic* conduct and purity is essential on the day of *Shraddha*. Let us find out which activities are advised against on Matru Navami.

**Abstain from *Tamasic* Food**

There is a tradition of consuming *Sattvic* food during Pitru Paksha. On Matru Navami, it is considered particularly important to avoid *Tamasic* food. Purity and a *Sattvic* nature are prioritized in the food prepared for the *Shraddha* rituals. According to religious beliefs, one should abstain from non-vegetarian food, alcohol, and other *Tamasic* items on this day. Many families also avoid the use of onion and garlic.

**Do Not Disrespect Women**

Matru Navami is considered a day dedicated to female ancestors; therefore, special emphasis is placed on treating women with respect. Using abusive language, insulting a woman, or intentionally causing her distress is not considered appropriate from a religious perspective. It is believed that a peaceful and positive atmosphere should be maintained in the home during the *Shraddha* period. Consequently, it is considered best to avoid anger, disputes, and harsh speech on this day.

**Avoid Cutting Hair and Nails**

In many families, cutting hair and nails is avoided during the period of Pitru Paksha. It is customary to observe this tradition on Matru Navami as well, particularly by those performing *Shraddha* rituals. However, rules may vary across different families and traditions; therefore, it is advisable to prioritize one's own lineage customs and family traditions.

**Avoid Wasting Food**

Food holds special significance in *Shraddha* rituals. Consequently, discarding food or treating it disrespectfully on Matru Navami is considered inappropriate. The tradition involves offering the food prepared for the *Shraddha* ceremony with reverence and preparing only the amount required. Religious beliefs also dictate a tradition of feeding Brahmins or the needy and performing acts of charity after the *Shraddha* ritual.

**Abstaining from Auspicious Purchases and New Items**

*Pitra Paksha* is generally regarded as a period dedicated to remembering ancestors and performing *Tarpan* and *Shraddha* rituals. For this reason, many families refrain from purchasing new clothes, jewelry, or other major items during this time. Some families observe this practice on Matru Navami as well. However, rules regarding this are not uniform across all communities; thus, it should be viewed through the lens of religious belief and family tradition.

**Points to Remember for Matru Navami**

The primary objective of Matru Navami is to remember deceased female ancestors and to express gratitude and reverence towards them. Therefore, alongside performing worship and *Shraddha* rituals, it is considered important to maintain a peaceful atmosphere at home, assist the needy, and remember one's ancestors with devotion.

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