FAQs

Understanding the Why, When and How of Hindu Rituals

Traditionally, the eldest son is the primary performer. However, if the eldest son is unavailable, younger sons, grandsons (from son or daughter’s side), nephews, or even disciples can perform Shradh. Importantly, in the absence of suitable male relatives, daughters, wives (widows), or other female relatives can and should perform Shradh in Haridwar to fulfill the duty towards ancestors.

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.

Key materials include rice flour, barley (jau) flour, black sesame seeds (til), honey, milk, ghee, Kusha grass (darbha), flowers, and water from the Alaknanda. Pandits at Brahmakapal usually arrange the necessary Samagri as part of their service. If you have specific family requirements, discuss them with the Pandit beforehand. Basic materials are easily available in the Badrinath market if needed.

For Kaal Sarp Pooja, you’ll need an altar, gifts like flowers, fruits, sweets, incense, a ghee lamp, and a bell. A picture or statue of the serpent is also used as a focal point for the pooja on the altar.

Pandits can often be found directly at the major ghats (like Dashashwamedh, Assi). One can also seek recommendations from their hotel, local contacts, or reputable pilgrimage service providers (online platforms like Prayag Pandits, Mahatarpan, Devaseva, Yatradham list priests or offer booking services). It’s wise to discuss the procedure and Dakshina (priest’s fee) beforehand.

Traditionally, the eldest son performs Tarpan for his parents and ancestors. In his absence, younger sons, grandsons, great-grandsons, or other male relatives can perform it. The performer should ideally be accompanied by his wife if married

Absolutely.

In fact, Gaya Shraddha is especially suited for:

  • Forgotten ancestors
  • Those whose date of death is unknown
  • Souls who died in war, accidents, suicide, or unnatural death Performing Pind Daan in such cases is called “Sarva Pitru Shraddha” and brings peace to all departed souls in the lineage, whether known or unknown. It is a deeply compassionate act of Atma Kalyan (soul elevation) for the entire family tree.

Causes include ancestors committing sins or misdeeds, ancestors dying with unfulfilled desires, improper performance of death rituals (like Shraddha), disrespect shown to elders or parents by ancestors or the individual, or unnatural/premature deaths in the family lineage.

Yes, generally:

  • Purity: Maintain physical (bathing) and mental purity.
  • Attire: Wear simple, clean, traditional attire (often white or light-colored Dhoti/Kurta for men, Saree/Salwar for women; avoid black).
  • Diet: Strict vegetarian diet, avoiding onion, garlic, and sometimes rice, is often required before and during the puja days.
  • Presence: Physical presence is recommended for maximum benefit, although online options exist. A male member is often required for certain rites like Pind Daan.
  • Follow all specific instructions from the performing pandit.

Foods strictly avoided during Pitru Paksha include non-vegetarian items (meat, fish, eggs), onion, garlic, masoor dal (red lentils), hing (asafoetida), certain grains depending on tradition, processed foods, and stale food. Alcohol and tobacco are also prohibited

Pind Daan is a sacred ritual that requires adherence to certain rules and guidelines as per Hindu traditions. Here are some key rules to follow:

  • Eligibility: Pind Daan is typically performed by the eldest son or a male relative of the deceased. In the absence of a male heir, the daughter or the wife can perform the ritual.
  • Dress code: Wear clean, simple, and preferably white or light-colored clothes. Men should ideally wear a dhoti and kurta, while women can wear a saree or a suit.
  • Fasting: The person performing the Pind Daan is expected to fast on the day of the ceremony until the rituals are completed. Some also observe a partial fast the day before.
  • Offerings: The main offerings for Pind Daan include black sesame seeds, barley, kusha grass, and water. These are offered along with the pind (rice balls) to the ancestors.
  • Rituals: The ceremony may involve multiple rituals such as tarpan (offering water), pind daan (offering rice balls), and shraadh (invoking ancestors). Follow the pandit’s instructions carefully during each step.
  • Timing: Consult with the conducting organization regarding the timings. Pind daan can be done from early morning up until early evening. Contact us to know more.
  • Respect and devotion: Maintain a respectful and devoted attitude throughout the ceremony. Focus on the prayers and the significance of the ritual.

It’s important to consult with the pandit or the organization conducting the Pind Daan for any specific rules or customs that need to be followed. Adherence to these rules and performing the Pind Daan with sincerity and devotion is believed to bring peace and salvation to the departed soul.

View our pind daan pooja package here.

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.

It is a set of rituals and offerings specifically designed to appease ancestors and nullify the ill effects of Pitrudosh.

Pitru Paksha (“fortnight of the ancestors”) is a 16-lunar-day period in the Hindu calendar when Hindus pay homage to their ancestors (Pitrs), especially through food offerings. It’s significant because it’s believed that performing rituals like Tarpan and Shraddha during this time satisfies the souls of departed ancestors, ensuring their peace and blessings upon their descendants, and helping them in their journey after death.

The cost can vary significantly based on the Pandit, the elaborateness of the ritual, and included services (like samagri). A basic Tarpan might range from ₹500 to ₹2,000. If combined with Pind Daan and other offerings, the cost for the entire Shraddha ceremony can range from ₹5,000 to ₹15,000 or more, including Pandit dakshina (fees) and materials. Packaged services offered online might have fixed rates (e.g., around ₹11,000 for Pind Daan package including Tarpan). It’s best to discuss and agree upon the cost beforehand

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