Asthi Visarjan FAQs
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.
What services are included in the Asthi Visarjan package in Prayagraj?
Asthi Visarjan packages in Prayagraj typically include the services of a knowledgeable pandit, pooja materials, a private boat ride (usually a hand boat) to reach Sangam, and rituals like Asthi Pooja, Ganga Pooja. It sometimes also includes pind daan, tarpan, gau daan and 84 daan but comes at an extra price. These packages aim to ensure that the ritual is performed with due respect and adherence to Vedic traditions.
What rituals or actions are recommended after completing the Asthi Visarjan in Varanasi?
After the immersion is complete:
- Ganga Snan: Take a purifying dip in the holy Ganga.
- Change Clothes: Wear fresh clothes after bathing.
- Tarpan: Ensure Tarpan (water offering) has been done.
- Seek Blessings: Visiting the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple is highly recommended to pray for the departed soul and seek Lord Shiva’s blessings. Visiting Maa Annapurna Temple is also customary.
- Daan (Charity): Offering food or charity to the poor or Brahmins near the ghats is a meritorious act.
- Reflect peacefully on the significance of the ritual and the soul’s journey.
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 important Mantras chanted during Asthi Visarjan?
Yes, the Pandit chants specific Vedic mantras appropriate for the occasion. While the Karta may not chant complex mantras, they will repeat prayers and intentions as guided by the Pandit. Some key elements involve:
- Mantras invoking Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, and the Triveni Sangam.
- Prayers to Lord Vishnu, Lord Yama, and Agni (who consumed the body).
- Mantras seeking peace and liberation for the departed soul (e.g., mentioning their name and Gotra).
- Specific mantras during the act of immersion for purification and safe passage of the soul.
- Mantras for Tarpan.
Trust the Pandit to chant the appropriate mantras; your role is to participate with faith and devotion.
What is the approximate cost involved in performing Asthi Visarjan in Prayagraj?
The costs can vary, but generally include:
- Pandit Dakshina: This is the primary component and depends on the Pandit.
- Boat Charges: Fare for the boat to take you to the Sangam and back. This can vary depending on the season, duration, and bargaining.
- Samagri Cost: Usually minimal, sometimes included by the Pandit.
A rough estimate for the entire process (Pandit Dakshina, basic Samagri, boat) might range from ₹2000 to ₹5000 or more. It’s crucial to discuss and agree upon all costs (Pandit’s fee, boat charges) clearly beforehand to avoid any confusion.
When is the best time to perform Asthi Visarjan in Haridwar?
Asthi Visarjan should ideally be performed as soon as possible after cremation. Traditionally, it’s often done on the 3rd day, but if circumstances prevent this, it should generally be completed within 10 or 11 days. If there’s a longer delay, it’s advisable to perform it after completing the Tirtha Shraddha. There isn’t a specific “inauspicious” time; the key is to perform it respectfully when feasible
Is there a specific procedure for Asthi Visarjan at the Triveni Sangam?
Yes, there is a reverent procedure typically followed:
- Sankalpa: The Karta (usually the son or close relative performing the ritual) takes a vow (Sankalpa) guided by the Pandit, stating the name of the deceased, their Gotra, and the purpose of the ritual.
- Purification: The ashes (asthi), usually kept in a holy cloth within an urn (Kalash), are purified with Ganga Jal (water from the Ganga), milk, and sometimes other sacred items like honey or ghee.
- Puja: A brief Puja is performed, often involving prayers to Lord Vishnu, Lord Yama (God of Death), and the Pitrus (ancestors). Offerings like flowers, Tulsi leaves, and black sesame seeds might be made.
- Immersion: Guided by the Pandit’s mantras, the Karta reverently immerses the ashes into the waters of the Triveni Sangam.
- Tarpan: Often, Tarpan (offering water with sesame seeds) is performed immediately after for the peace of the departed soul and other ancestors.
- Daan: Giving Dakshina to the Pandit and Daan (charity) to the needy or boatmen is customary.
How can I find a reliable Pandit or Tirth Purohit for Asthi Visarjan in Haridwar?
- At the Ghats: Pandits are readily available at major Ghats like Har Ki Pauri and Kankhal.
- Local Referrals: Ask for recommendations at temples or your accommodation.
- Online Platforms: Several reputable platforms specialize in connecting users with verified Pandits in Haridwar for Asthi Visarjan (e.g.,Prayag Pandits,). These often list Pandits, their experience, languages spoken, and package costs.
- Directories: Online directories like Justdial list numerous Pandits specializing in these rituals in Haridwar.
- Look for Pandits experienced specifically in Asthi Visarjan and familiar with relevant mantras and procedures.
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).