Asthi Visarjan at Varanasi FAQs
How much time should I allocate for the Asthi Visarjan ritual in Varanasi?
- The core ritual of Puja and immersion at the Ghat itself is relatively brief, usually taking around 30 to 60 minutes.
- If you need to take a boat to a specific spot in the river (sometimes done for privacy or specific locations away from crowded ghat edges), you need to factor in boat hiring and travel time.
- Overall, including travel to/from the Ghat and the ritual, plan for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
My relative passed away many years ago or Can I still bring their ashes for immersion in Varanasi?
Yes, absolutely. The grace of Kashi and Ganga Maiya is timeless. Even if the death occurred long ago and the ashes were kept safe, performing Asthi Visarjan here now will still bestow immense peace upon the departed soul and bring closure and blessings to the family. The merit is not diminished by the passage of time when the act is performed with sincere faith in this holy city
What is the cost of asthi visarjan in Varanasi?
The cost of asthi visarjan in Varanasi can vary widely based on several factors, including the services chosen, the pandit’s fees, and any additional rituals performed alongside the visarjan. Basic packages might start from around Rs. 3,100 and can go up to Rs. 7,100 or more for comprehensive services that include puja ceremonies, boat services, and offerings. It’s advisable to discuss the details and costs with service providers or pandits beforehand to understand what is included in the package. Prayag Pandits offer a complete package which covers everything and is available at nominal price. Click here to check it.
Why is Varanasi considered such an important place for Asthi Visarjan?
Kashi is Moksha-Dayini, the city that grants liberation. It is the eternal abode of Lord Shiva. When the last physical remains (asthi) are immersed in the holy Ganga river within the sacred boundaries of Kashi, it is believed that Lord Shiva himself whispers the Taraka Mantra in the ear of the soul, freeing it from the cycle of rebirth. Maa Ganga, originating from the heavens, washes away sins and purifies the soul. Performing Asthi Visarjan here ensures the departed attains Sadgati (a peaceful state) and moves towards ultimate liberation.
Is there a specific best time or auspicious day for Asthi Visarjan in Varanasi?
- Unlike annual Shradh, Asthi Visarjan in the holy Ganga at Kashi can be performed on any day and at almost any time during daylight hours. The act itself is supremely purifying.
- It is generally advised to perform the immersion without unnecessary delay after the ashes are collected.
- While any day is good, performing it during religiously significant periods like Pitru Paksha, Ekadashi, Purnima, or Amavasya might be considered to add further merit, but waiting is not required. Avoid performing the immersion after sunset.
How should the ashes be transported legally and respectfully while travelling to Varanasi?
Transporting ashes requires sensitivity and adherence to regulations:
- Respectful Handling: Always treat the urn containing ashes with utmost respect. Keep it securely wrapped and avoid placing it on the floor or in impure places.
- Air Travel: Airlines generally permit carrying cremated remains (ashes). You usually need to carry them in a security-friendly container (like wood, biodegradable material, or sometimes plastic, not metal, usually, as it needs to pass X-ray). Check specifically with your airline beforehand regarding their policy, documentation needed (usually a Death Certificate, Cremation Certificate), and packaging requirements. Often, they must be carried as cabin baggage.
- Train/Road Travel: Keep the urn securely packed and carry necessary documents (Death Certificate, Cremation Certificate) in case of any checks. Maintain its sanctity during the journey.
At which specific Ghats in Varanasi is Asthi Visarjan typically performed?
While immersion anywhere in the Ganga at Kashi is meritorious, certain Ghats are traditionally favored:
- Manikarnika Ghat: As a Mahashamshan (great cremation ground), immersion here holds profound significance, directly linked to liberation.
- Harishchandra Ghat: Another major cremation ghat where rites are commonly performed.
- Assi Ghat: Located at the confluence of Ganga and Assi rivers, it’s a popular and accessible spot.
- Dashashwamedh Ghat: While very busy with other rituals, simple immersions are also done here.
- Other Ghats: Many other ghats like Kedar Ghat, Raj Ghat etc., are also used. Often, the Pandit guides you to a suitable location based on tradition, accessibility, and the current river conditions.
Best pandit to do asthi visarjan in Varanasi?
Selecting the best pandit for asthi visarjan in Varanasi or kashi depends on the family’s specific needs, including their linguistic, regional, and caste preferences. It’s important to choose a pandit who is experienced, knowledgeable about the Vedic scriptures, and understands the family’s specific rituals and traditions. Prayag Pandits offer services to connect families with qualified pandits in Varanasi. Prayag Pandits have a team of pandits & teerth purohits in varanasi who are have been performing such rituals from last 50-60 years.
View asthi visarjan package offered by us- click here
Where to do asthi visarjan in Varanasi?
Varanasi, a city on the banks of the Ganges, offers several ghats for performing asthi visarjan. Some of the most prominent ghats for this ritual include Harishchandra Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Kedar Ghat, Raja Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat and Raj Ghat. Each of these ghats has its own significance and is considered equally important for the ritual. The choice of ghat may depend on personal preference, the advice of a pandit, or logistical considerations. It is advisable to perform as per instructed by pandit ji. It’s essential to ensure that the ritual is performed in a respectful and environmentally conscious manner.
To perform asthi visarjan in varanasi with expert pandits- click here
Can foreigners or people of faiths other than Hinduism perform or witness Asthi Visarjan in Varanasi?
Performing: Asthi Visarjan is fundamentally a Hindu ritual tied to beliefs about the soul, reincarnation, and Moksha through the Ganga. While the core act might be performed by anyone with faith, the accompanying Vedic rituals and mantras are specific to Hindu tradition, usually performed by family members or designated priests. If a deceased person of another faith wished for their ashes to be immersed in Ganga out of personal reverence, it can be done respectfully, perhaps with simpler prayers according to their belief or universal prayers for peace, possibly without the full Vedic rites.
Witnessing: Foreigners and people of other faiths can generally witness the ritual from a respectful distance at most public ghats. However, sensitivity is crucial. Avoid intrusive photography, maintain silence, and respect the family’s privacy during their solemn moment. At cremation ghats like Manikarnika, while observation is often permitted, extreme sensitivity and unobtrusiveness are expected.