Pithru Paksha

The last day for immersing Ganesha is Anantha Chathurdashi.  The next day is full moon day which is the last day of the brighter half of the month of Bhadrapada.  This is followed by the dark fortnight of the month which is referred to as the Pithru Paksha or Mahalaya Paksha  and the last day of this fortnight is the New moon  day or Mahalaya Amavasya.  This fortnight is considered very auspicious for performing the obsequial rites to  departed ancestors. So much so,  auspicious events such as marriages, thread ceremonies, etc. are not conducted during this part of the month.  During these 15 days offerings are made to the departed souls  Majority of Hindus perform these rites on the Mahalaya Amavasya day.  They pay their homage to their ancestors by offering food to priests or by feeding the poor.