What is Apara Karma in Tamil Hindu tradition?

Apara Karma (literally “the other karma”) is the collective term used in Tamil Hindu tradition for all post-death rituals performed for a departed relative, distinct from “Apara” meaning the 16-day sequence following death. These rituals include: Sadaku Ceremony (on death day), Samskaram (cremation or burial preparation), Dina Shraddham (daily rituals for 10-16 days), Karumathi / Subham (the ceremony on the 13th or 16th day that marks the formal transition to Preta state), Masikam (monthly offerings for 12 months), and Sapindikarana (on the first death anniversary). Apara Karma follows the Tamil Vedic tradition with specific Dravida mantras, different from North Indian practice. The full sequence spans 1 year and is performed by the Vadhyar (Tamil pandit).