Asthi Visarjan at Varanasi FAQs
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.
What should be done if the urn or ashes are accidentally dropped or mishandled during travel or before the ritual?
Accidents can happen, my child. If such an unfortunate incident occurs:
- Remain Calm: Do not panic.
- Collect Respectfully: Gather the ashes as completely and respectfully as possible. If spilled on clean ground, collect the ashes along with a small amount of the soil.
- Purification: Inform the Pandit upon arrival in Varanasi. They can perform specific purification mantras (Prayashchit) before proceeding with the Visarjan to remedy any inadvertent disrespect or contamination.
- The intention (Bhavana) remains most important. The deities understand human fallibility.
What is the estimated cost involved for Asthi Visarjan in Varanasi?
- The cost is not fixed and depends mainly on:
- Pandit’s Dakshina: This is the main component and varies based on the Pandit.
- Samagri Cost: Usually quite minimal.
- Boat Charges: Applicable only if you hire a boat for immersion in the mid-stream (can range from ₹500 to ₹1500 or more depending on duration and boat type).
- A very approximate range for a simple Asthi Visarjan at the Ghat including Pandit Dakshina and basic Samagri could be ₹1500 to ₹4000. For rituals involving a boat ride, the cost would be higher.
- It is essential to have a clear conversation about all expected costs (Pandit fee, Samagri, boat if applicable)
Are there specific things one should not wear or bring to the Asthi Visarjan ritual?
Simplicity and purity are key:
- Clothing: Avoid black clothing, as it’s often considered inauspicious for such rites. Also avoid overly bright, flashy, or revealing attire. Stick to simple, clean clothes, preferably white, off-white, or light, sober colors. Leather items (belts, wallets, shoes) are often discouraged during the core ritual; remove them if possible.
- Items: Avoid bringing unnecessary distractions like excessive electronics, food items (unless for offering/Daan), or valuables that might cause anxiety. Focus should be on the ritual. Maintain physical and mental purity – avoid alcohol or non-vegetarian food before the ritual.
Is photography or videography appropriate during the Asthi Visarjan ritual?
This is a sensitive matter. While families may wish to document this final rite, it should be done with utmost discretion and respect:
- Focus on Ritual, Not Spectacle: The primary focus must remain on the prayers and the departed soul, not on getting perfect shots.
- Ask Permission: If involving others (like the Pandit or boatman) in photos, seek their permission.
- Avoid Intrusion: Do not obstruct the ritual process or disturb the solemn atmosphere with excessive photography/videography. Be mindful of other grieving families nearby.
- Live Streaming: If considering live streaming for relatives unable to attend, ensure it’s done unobtrusively and focuses respectfully on the rites.
- Generally, minimal and discreet recording for personal memory is acceptable, but turning it into a photo session is inappropriate.
What is the core spiritual belief behind immersing ashes specifically in Kashi Ganga compared to other holy rivers or places?
The core belief specific to Kashi stems from its identity as Lord Shiva’s city and the place of Moksha:
- Shiva’s Grace: Immersion in the Ganga here is believed to directly invoke Lord Shiva’s grace. The Taraka Mantra whispered by Shiva is thought to liberate the soul instantly, bypassing further karmic cycles or journeys through other realms.
- Ganga’s Ultimate Power: While Ganga is holy everywhere, in Kashi, her power is considered amplified by the sacred geography and Shiva’s presence. She becomes not just a purifier but a direct vehicle to liberation.
- Breaking the Cycle: Unlike other places where immersion might grant peace or higher realms (Swarga), Kashi specifically emphasizes Moksha – the ultimate release from the cycle of birth and death. This is the unique promise of performing the final rites, including Asthi Visarjan, in Varanasi.
When to do asthi visarjan in Varanasi?
Asthi visarjan, the immersion of a deceased person’s ashes in a sacred river, is a significant ritual in Hinduism. In Varanasi or kashi, this ritual can be performed on any day of the year, but there are specific timings considered more auspicious based on Hindu calendars and the deceased’s death anniversary. Generally, the ashes are collected on the 3rd, 7th, or 9th day after cremation and should ideally be immersed before the 10th day. However, if circumstances prevent this, performing the ritual after completing the Tirtha-shraddha ceremony is recommended. Consulting with a knowledgeable priest or pandit can help determine the most auspicious time for the visarjan.
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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.
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.
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.