Asthi Visarjan at Prayagraj FAQs
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.
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.
What services are included in the Asthi Visarjan package in Prayagraj?
Asthi Visarjan packages in Prayagraj typically include the services of a knowledgeable pandit, pooja materials, a private boat ride (usually a hand boat) to reach Sangam, and rituals like Asthi Pooja, Ganga Pooja. It sometimes also includes pind daan, tarpan, gau daan and 84 daan but comes at an extra price. These packages aim to ensure that the ritual is performed with due respect and adherence to Vedic traditions.
Who is eligible to perform the Asthi Visarjan ritual or can women perform it?
- Traditionally, the eldest son is the primary Karta (performer) for Asthi Visarjan, just as for funeral rites. In his absence, a younger son, grandson (son’s son), or even a daughter’s son can perform the ritual.
- Yes, women can definitely perform Asthi Visarjan. If there are no male descendants, or if they are unable to travel or perform the rites, a daughter, wife, daughter-in-law, or other close female relative can perform the immersion with full rights and reverence. The key is the bond of love and the faithful completion of the duty. We see many daughters and wives performing this sacred act here at Prayagraj
What is the cost of asthi visarjan in Prayagraj or Allahabad?
The cost of asthi visarjan in Prayagraj can vary depending on the services and the package chosen.
It usually ranges from INR 5,100/- (basic asthi visarjan package including pandit charges and pooja material) to INR 12,000/- (premium package including airport transfers, hotel stay for 2, pandit ji charges, boat ride to sangam, pooja samagri).
The cost typically includes the services of a pandit, pooja materials, boat ride to reach Sangam, and other rituals associated with the ceremony. Some service providers offer customized packages based on the devotee’s requirements and availability.
What should be done after the Asthi Visarjan is completed?
After the immersion and offering Dakshina/Daan:
- Holy Dip: It is customary for the Karta and accompanying family members to take a purifying bath (Snan) at the Sangam.
- Change Clothes: Change into fresh clothes after the bath.
- Temple Visits: Visiting nearby temples like Bade Hanuman Ji Mandir or Alopi Devi Mandir to seek blessings is common.
- Simple Meal: Have a simple, Sattvic meal afterwards.
- The primary duty towards the departed concerning their physical remnants is considered fulfilled with the immersion at a holy place like Prayagraj. Subsequently, performing annual Shradh rituals remains important.
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.
What is the best time to perform Asthi Visarjan in Prayagraj?
The best time for Asthi Visarjan in Prayagraj is during the Pitru Paksha period, which falls between September and October. This 16-day period is dedicated to paying homage to one’s ancestors. However, the ritual can be performed at any time of the year, with some families choosing dates that hold personal significance or are recommended by their family priests.
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.
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.