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.
What is Asthi Visarjan?
Asthi Visarjan is a Hindu ritual that involves the immersion of the ashes (asthis) of a deceased person into a holy river. In Prayagraj, this ritual holds significant importance due to the confluence (Sangam) of three sacred rivers: the Ganges, Yamuna, and the invisible Saraswati. This ritual is helps to provide moksha or liberation to the departed soul, allowing it to merge with the divine.
What Samagri are generally required for Asthi Visarjan?
The basic requirements are usually simple:
- The urn (Kalash) containing the ashes, wrapped in a clean cloth (preferably white or red).
- Flowers (especially white flowers).
- Black sesame seeds (kala til).
- Raw milk.
- A small amount of ghee and honey (optional, as advised by Pandit).
- Incense sticks (agarbatti) and a lamp (diya).
- Kusha grass.
- Water pot (Lota).
Most of these items are readily available near the Ghats. The Pandit you engage often helps arrange the necessary Samagri.
When is the best time or day to perform Asthi Visarjan in Prayagraj?
- Unlike Shradh, which has specific periods like Pitru Paksha, Asthi Visarjan can generally be performed on any day. There is no strict requirement for an auspicious Muhurta, as the act itself is considered purifying.
- However, it’s often advised to perform it as soon as reasonably possible after collecting the ashes post-cremation.
- Performing it during daylight hours is standard practice. Avoid immersion after sunset.
- Some periods, like Pitru Paksha, Magh Mela, or Amavasya day, are considered highly potent due to the increased spiritual energy at the Sangam, but it is not mandatory to wait for these times.
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.
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.
What rules to follow for asthi visarjan in Prayagraj or Allahabad?
Certain rules and customs are traditionally followed during asthi visarjan in Prayagraj:
- The asthis should not be placed on the ground while traveling to the tirthsthal (holy place).
- A white dhoti should be carried for the male family members performing the ritual.
- The kalash containing the ashes should not touch the ground.
- The ritual should be performed with reverence and as per the guidance of a knowledgeable pandit.
- It is important to perform the ceremony with devotion and to follow the prescribed Vedic rituals to ensure the peace of the departed soul.
These rules are meant to show respect to the departed soul and ensure the proper completion of the ritual as per Hindu traditions.