The real estate market traditionally experiences a temporary slowdown during Pitru Paksha, with some homebuyers choosing to postpone property purchases, registrations and major financial decisions until the more auspicious festive period begins.
In 2026, Pitru Paksha will be observed from September 26 to October 10. Also known as Shradh, the period is dedicated to paying respects to ancestors through religious rituals. According to real estate professionals, long-standing beliefs associated with the period influence the timing of several property transactions.
Many buyers avoid booking homes or completing registrations during Pitru Paksha because it is traditionally considered unsuitable for new beginnings. In Mumbai, some buyers and sellers may instead schedule transactions around Navratri, Dussehra, Dhanteras or Diwali, when property activity typically gains momentum.
The sentiment is also influencing larger transactions. Mumbai-based landlord Rajendra Modi said discussions surrounding a proposed ₹45-crore land sale in the city’s suburbs have been deferred.
“We had a meeting on September 23, where we decided that all the paperwork, calls and negotiations will now take place from the first day of Navratri. We plan to close the discussions by Dussehra and further aim to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the developer around Dhanteras or Diwali,” he said.
Explaining the decision, Modi added, “The only reason is that, if we are so close to the auspicious days of the year, why would we close or discuss the deal during the inauspicious period of Pitru Paksha? It is all about our beliefs,” he said.
Developers view this slowdown largely as a sentiment-driven pause rather than a fundamental weakening of housing demand.
“Buying a home in India is rarely just a financial decision; it is deeply rooted in emotion, belief and sentiment. During Pitru Paksha, some homebuyers consciously defer purchases, viewing the period as less auspicious for new beginnings,” said Raahul Maroo, founder and managing director, Tatvm Builders and Developers.
“This can create a temporary sentiment-led pause rather than signal a broad-based demand slowdown. With the festive season traditionally bringing renewed optimism and a stronger inclination towards auspicious purchases, we expect deferred intent to support healthy housing activity,” Maroo said.
As Navratri and Diwali approach, postponed enquiries and negotiations could therefore return to the market, potentially giving festive-season housing activity a fresh boost.
Source: Hindustan Times
