Asthi Visarjan at Prayagraj FAQs
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.
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.
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).
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.
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).
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
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 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.
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