Asthi Visarjan at Prayagraj FAQs
Can Asthi Visarjan be performed remotely or online if I cannot travel to Prayagraj?
- Yes, similar to Shradh rituals, some Pandits and specialized service providers in Prayagraj now offer remote or online Asthi Visarjan services.
- Process: You would need to securely ship the ashes (following all regulations) to the designated Pandit or service provider. They will then perform the immersion ritual at the Triveni Sangam on your behalf at an agreed time. Often, they provide options for live video streaming (via WhatsApp, Zoom etc.) so you can witness the ritual remotely, or they send photos/videos afterward.
- Consideration: While physical presence is traditionally preferred, this is a valid option for those genuinely unable to travel. Ensure you choose a highly reputable and trustworthy Pandit/service, confirm all details, and understand how the process will be conducted and verified.
Can ashes of more than one person be immersed together during the same ritual?
Generally, it is recommended to perform the Asthi Visarjan ritual separately for each individual, with a distinct Sankalpa (vow) mentioning their specific name and Gotra. This ensures the prayers and merits are directed appropriately to each soul.
However, if circumstances necessitate (e.g., ashes of both parents collected together, or logistical constraints), a knowledgeable Pandit can guide you on how to perform the immersion during the same trip, possibly with slightly modified procedures or separate Sankalpas within the same session. It is best to consult the performing Pandit about this specific situation beforehand.
Can Asthi Visarjan be performed if the death occurred long ago?
Yes, If, for some reason, the ashes could not be immersed shortly after death, Asthi Visarjan can still be performed even years later. The sanctity of Prayagraj and the power of the Triveni Sangam are such that the ritual remains highly beneficial whenever performed with faith and devotion. It provides peace to the soul regardless of when the immersion takes place.
How long does the Asthi Visarjan ritual typically take at the Sangam?
The entire process includes:
- Travel to the Ghat.
- Hiring a boat and traveling to the Sangam spot.
- Performing the Puja and immersion ritual guided by the Pandit.
- Returning to the Ghat.
The ritual itself on the boat or platform usually takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour. Including boat travel, the total duration might be around 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the crowd and distance
What should be done with the urn or Kalash and the cloth wrapping after the ashes are immersed?
Once the ashes are immersed in the Sangam:
Urn (Kalash): Traditionally, the earthen pot (if used) is also gently immersed or broken and immersed in the river. If it’s a metal urn, it’s usually washed in the holy water and taken back, perhaps to be reused for auspicious purposes or kept safely. Consult your Pandit or follow family custom. Do not discard it improperly.
Cloth: The cloth used to wrap the urn is typically washed in the Sangam water and then can be disposed of respectfully (some immerse it, others discard it cleanly on the banks, following local guidelines). Avoid leaving it to pollute the area. The Pandit can guide the appropriate action.
How should the ashes be handled and stored before bringing them to Prayagraj?
The ashes (Asthi) should be treated with utmost respect as they represent the last physical connection to the departed.
- Collection: Collect them cleanly after cremation, usually on the third day or as per family custom.
- Container: Place them in a clean earthen pot (Kalash/urn) or a copper/brass urn. Avoid plastic if possible.
- Wrapping: Wrap the urn securely in a clean, new cloth, typically white or red cotton.
- Storage: Keep the urn in a clean, pure, and respectful place in the home, often near the family altar or in a designated spot. Avoid placing it on the floor directly; use a clean cloth or pedestal. Maintain purity in the area where the ashes are kept. Do not take them into impure places (like bathrooms).
Is there a specific procedure for Asthi Visarjan at the Triveni Sangam?
Yes, there is a reverent procedure typically followed:
- Sankalpa: The Karta (usually the son or close relative performing the ritual) takes a vow (Sankalpa) guided by the Pandit, stating the name of the deceased, their Gotra, and the purpose of the ritual.
- Purification: The ashes (asthi), usually kept in a holy cloth within an urn (Kalash), are purified with Ganga Jal (water from the Ganga), milk, and sometimes other sacred items like honey or ghee.
- Puja: A brief Puja is performed, often involving prayers to Lord Vishnu, Lord Yama (God of Death), and the Pitrus (ancestors). Offerings like flowers, Tulsi leaves, and black sesame seeds might be made.
- Immersion: Guided by the Pandit’s mantras, the Karta reverently immerses the ashes into the waters of the Triveni Sangam.
- Tarpan: Often, Tarpan (offering water with sesame seeds) is performed immediately after for the peace of the departed soul and other ancestors.
- Daan: Giving Dakshina to the Pandit and Daan (charity) to the needy or boatmen is customary.
What specific etiquette or precautions should be observed during the boat ride and the ritual at the Sangam?
Maintaining reverence is paramount:
- Purity: Ensure you have bathed and are wearing clean, simple clothes before boarding the boat.
- Conduct: Maintain silence or speak softly and respectfully on the boat. Avoid casual chatter, arguments, or using mobile phones excessively during the ritual time. Focus on the solemnity of the occasion.
- Footwear: Remove footwear before stepping onto the ritual platform or performing the rites on the boat, as guided by the Pandit.
- Offerings: Do not throw any non-biodegradable items (like plastic wrappers) into the river. Offer only the prescribed Samagri.
- Instructions: Listen carefully and follow the Pandit’s instructions throughout the ritual.
- Respect the Rivers: Treat the Sangam with utmost reverence. Avoid spitting or any impure actions while on or near the water.
Why is Prayagraj considered a superior place for Asthi Visarjan Ashes Immersion?
Prayagraj holds the sacred Triveni Sangam, the confluence of India’s holiest rivers: Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati. Immersing ashes here is considered exceptionally auspicious. The Puranas extol the virtues of Prayagraj, stating that Asthi Visarjan at the Sangam helps the departed soul attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death. The combined spiritual energy of the three rivers purifies the last remnants, granting peace (Shanti) and facilitating the soul’s onward journey. It is believed that the merits gained here are multiplied manifold compared to many other places
Why is Prayagraj considered significant for Asthi Visarjan?
Prayagraj, formerly known as Allahabad, is considered one of the holiest cities for performing Asthi Visarjan due to the presence of Triveni Sangam. It is also known as Teerthraj. The confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers is believed to have purifying powers, making it an ideal place for the ritual. The act of immersing ashes here is thought to help the soul attain peace and liberation.