Date and tithi are not always the same thing
The Hindu calendar is lunisolar. Alongside the familiar Gregorian date, each day also has a tithi — a lunar day within the waxing (Shukla) or waning (Krishna) fortnight of the moon.
In many traditions, the yearly remembrance of a departed family member follows the tithi on which they passed away, rather than simply the same English date each year. Because the lunar and Gregorian calendars do not move in step, that tithi usually falls on a slightly different Gregorian date from one year to the next.
Why families remember on the tithi
The annual remembrance of an ancestor is traditionally observed through Shraddha — a set of rites offered in honour of the Pitrs (ancestors). Families who follow Shraddha do so according to their own tradition and, where relevant, a priest's guidance.
Roots & Seva does not conduct Shraddha. What we can arrange is a separate act of seva — Gau Seva, Anna Daan or Brahman Bhojan — carried in a loved one's name on the day that matters to your family.
What if I only know the English date?
That is very common, and it is a good place to begin. It usually helps to:
- gather the date of passing;
- note the place and, if known, the approximate time, which can matter for some calculations;
- ask a family priest or a reliable Panchang authority where exact ritual timing is important;
- follow your own family's tradition where it already has an established practice.
We don't treat an automatic calculator as authoritative for every family. If you're unsure, see “I don't know my parent's tithi” for a calmer, step-by-step look.
Can I arrange a separate seva?
Yes. A family may choose Gau Seva, Anna Daan, Brahman Bhojan or a combination, arranged in the person's memory.
This is a separate act of remembrance — not a substitute for formal Shraddha. If your family already performs Shraddha, that tradition takes precedence; a seva can simply accompany it.
Tell us who you are remembering and the date or tithi. If a specific tithi needs confirming, we'll talk it through with you before anything is scheduled — see Pitru Smaran.
Sources & tradition notes
Hindu practices vary by region, family and sampradaya. This article is intended as an accessible introduction rather than a replacement for guidance from your family's priest or tradition.
- Dharmashastra traditions concerning Shraddha (rites of ancestral remembrance).
- Practical Shraddha-calendar references noting that annual Shraddha is observed by the lunar tithi.