Shradh, What is the significance of Shradhs ? ? ?

From Purnima to mid of Amavasya, that is for 16 days, Shradh is is performed to provide peace to the soul of our ancestors. In respect to the ancestors, it is very important to follow Pitra Paksha and perform their Shradh work. As per the Hindu scriptures and calendar.

Pitra Pakasha, that is, the Shradh Paksha, starts from Bhadrapad Shukla Purnima to Ashwin Krishna Amavasya. According to this, every year 16 days are mainly dedicated to ancestors.

 Shradh is a Sanskrit word, which literally means "anything done with sincerity and faith." "Shradh" also means “Shraddha" which means unconditional reverence and is to remember the ancestors with gratitude. Shradh is performed every year on the death anniversary of the deceased relative as per the Panchang (The Hindu calendar) or during the period of dark fortnight called Pitra Paksha.

Hindu Puranas are full of details about Shraddh. It is Yama, the god of death in Hindu mythology, who explained the importance of Shraddh performed on Pitru Paksha.

In the Pitra Paksha Shradha, Brahmins are offered food. After the meal, they are given donation and alms as per an individuals capacity. This helps in the maintenance of good health, peace, happiness and enrichment. The religious works done during Shradh Paksha Bhadrapad Shukla Purnima to Ashwini Krishna Amavasya, gives salvation to the ancestors. It is also believed that the food reaches to our forefathers through Brahmans and birds.

Brahmins are fed and given Daan-Dakshina, for it is believed that whatever is given to the Brahmins also reach the departed souls. Shradh is performed so that the ancestors may be satiated with our offerings. Shradh, promotes righteousness and inspires us to think of the other world, and also enhances our devotion towards God. Pleasing of ancestors before God is more beneficial.

Pitra Karya is more significant than Dev Karya.  Vayu Purana, Matsya Purana, Guru Purana, Vishnu Purana and other scriptures like Manu Smriti etc. contains the description of Shradh.

Shradh  is performed with the objective that a Jeeva may attain a better life in its next birth.