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 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.
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 if only a small portion of the ashes is available for immersion and Is it still beneficial?
Yes, absolutely. Even if only a symbolic portion of the ashes (Asthi) is available, immersing that portion with full faith and proper ritual at the Triveni Sangam is highly beneficial and meritorious. The divine rivers accept the offering with the Bhavana (intention and emotion) behind it. The scriptures mention that even a single bone fragment immersed in the Ganga (and by extension, the Sangam) grants immense peace to the soul. Do not feel disheartened if the full quantity is not available; perform the rite with what you have.
Should Shradh rituals be performed immediately after Asthi Visarjan in Prayagraj?
- It is not mandatory to perform a full Shradh immediately after Asthi Visarjan. The primary focus of the Asthi Visarjan trip is the immersion itself.
- However, it is common and considered meritorious to perform Tarpan (water offering) right after the immersion at the Sangam.
- Some families choose to perform a simple Pind Daan or a brief Shradh ritual on the banks after the immersion, especially if they have traveled from far and wish to combine the rites. You can discuss this possibility with your Pandit. The main, detailed Shradh rituals are typically performed during Pitru Paksha or on the annual death anniversary (Tithi).
Where exactly in Prayagraj is Asthi Visarjan performed?
The primary and most sacred location for Asthi Visarjan is the Triveni Sangam itself – the point where the distinct waters of the Ganga and Yamuna meet, and the Saraswati is believed to join from below. Pilgrims typically hire a boat to reach the designated area in the middle of the confluence where the immersion ritual is performed under the guidance of a Pandit.
Best pandit to do asthi visarjan in Prayagraj or Allahabad?
Finding the best pandit for asthi visarjan in Prayagraj involves looking for someone who is experienced and knowledgeable about the Vedic rituals and traditions.
Websites like Prayag Pandits & Prayag Samagam offer services of qualified pandits for conducting asthi visarjan. Since they are based in Prayagraj, they have joined the best pandits for asthi visarjan in prayagraj.
It is advisable to choose pandits who can guide the family through each step of the ceremony and who are recognized for their genuine services.
Where to do asthi visarjan in Prayagraj or Allahabad?
Prayagraj, formerly known as Allahabad, is a significant location for asthi visarjan due to the presence of the Triveni Sangam, the confluence of the holy rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and the invisible Saraswati.
The main places for asthi visarjan in Prayagraj include:
- Triveni Sangam: The most sacred spot where the three rivers meet.
- Dashashwamedh Ghat: One of the oldest ghats in Prayagraj.
- Ganga Ghat: A ghat located on the banks of Ganga River.
- Yamuna Ghat: A ghat located on the banks of Yamuna River.
- Triveni Sangam ghat: A ghat near triveni sangam point.
Best place to do asthi visarjan in prayagraj is triveni sangam point.
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
When to do asthi visarjan in Prayagraj or Allahabad?
Asthi visarjan, the Hindu ritual of immersing the ashes of the deceased, is traditionally performed at specific times. In Prayagraj or Allahabad, the asthis (ashes) are generally collected on the day of cremation or on the 3rd, 7th, or 9th day following the cremation. The immersion should take place before the 10th day.
However, if the visarjan is to be done after the 10th day, it is recommended to perform it only after the tirtha-shraddha ceremony. The Pitru Paksha period, which usually falls between September and October, is also considered an auspicious time for asthi visarjan. It is essential to consult with a knowledgeable pandit or priest to determine the most appropriate time based on religious calendars and family traditions.