Tarpan FAQs
How does Tarpan in Varanasi different from Tarpan in Gaya?
Gaya: Primarily renowned for Pind Daan and Shraddha, specifically linked to the boon granted to Gayasur and Lord Vishnu’s footprint (Vishnupad), ensuring direct liberation (Mukti/Moksha) for ancestors offered Pindas there. The Phalgu River is central.
Varanasi: Significance stems from being Lord Shiva’s city (Kashi), a powerful Moksha-Kshetra, and the presence of the holy Ganga. Tarpan here focuses on purification, seeking Shiva’s grace, and leveraging the inherent liberation energy of Kashi and the Ganga for ancestral peace and eventual Moksha. While Pind Daan is also done, Gaya holds the supreme position for that specific rite.
Can women perform Tarpan in Varanasi?
While traditionally male-centric, there is increasing acceptance and scriptural basis for women (daughters, daughters-in-law, wives) to perform or participate actively in Tarpan, especially if no suitable male heir is available. Some Pandits in Varanasi facilitate this, possibly with slight variations in the ritual (e.g., using white sesame). Participation alongside male family members is very common
Where in Haridwar is Tarpan typically performed?
Tarpan is primarily performed at the sacred Ghats along the Ganges River in Haridwar. Key locations include:
- Kushavarta Ghat: This Ghat is specifically renowned and traditionally considered the most appropriate and auspicious place in Haridwar for performing Tarpan, alongside Shradh and Pind Daan.
- Har Ki Pauri: The famous Brahma Kund area within Har Ki Pauri is also a highly sacred spot where devotees perform Tarpan, often after taking a holy dip.
- Other Ghats: While the above are primary, Tarpan can also be performed at other Ghats like Vishnu Ghat, Gau Ghat, or any clean spot along the riverbank where one can face south (for Pitru Tarpan).
How long does the Tarpan ceremony usually take in Gaya?
The specific act of Tarpan itself might take around 30-60 minutes. However, when performed as part of the standard one-day Pind Daan ritual in Gaya (covering Phalgu, Vishnupad, Akshayavat), the entire process usually takes about 3 to 4 hours, including preparation, Sankalpa, baths, and travel between sites.
Why is Varanasi considered a significant place for performing Tarpan?
Varanasi (Kashi) is believed to be Lord Shiva’s abode and a powerful ‘Moksha-Kshetra’ (place of liberation). The Ganga River flowing through Varanasi is revered as a divine mother capable of washing away sins. Performing Tarpan here combines the sanctity of Kashi with the purifying power of the Ganga, making the offerings highly effective in satisfying ancestors and aiding their spiritual journey. It’s believed rituals performed here help souls attain liberation
What are the spiritual benefits believed to come from performing Tarpan in Gaya?
Performing Tarpan in Gaya is believed to:
- Provide immense satisfaction and peace to the souls of ancestors.
- Liberate ancestors (Pitru Mukti) from the cycle of birth and rebirth, helping them attain higher realms or Moksha.
- Remove Pitru Dosha (afflictions caused by unsatisfied ancestors) from the family’s lineage.
- Bestow blessings (Pitru Ashirwad) from ancestors for health, prosperity, longevity, progeny, and overall well-being upon the descendants.
- Purify the performer (Karta) of sins and grant spiritual merit (Punya).
- Fulfill one’s sacred duty (Dharma) towards ancestors
What Samagri are needed for Tarpan in Varanasi?
Core materials include:
- Ganga Jal (Water from the Ganga River)
- Black Sesame Seeds (Kala Til)
- Barley (Jau)
- Kusha Grass (Darbha)
- A clean vessel (copper preferred)
- Optionally: White flowers, rice (Akshat), milk.
- Puja kits are readily available in Varanasi, or the assisting Pandit usually arranges them
Can women perform Tarpan in Gaya?
Traditional views often restricted women, particularly from performing the main rites alone. However, there’s growing acceptance and scriptural basis (like Garuda Purana referencing instances like Mata Sita performing rites) for women, especially daughters (if no sons exist) or daughters-in-law, to perform Tarpan and Pind Daan in Gaya. Some sources suggest women should use white sesame seeds instead of black. While direct performance by Gayawal Pandas might still primarily involve men, women actively participate alongside male family members, and increasingly perform rites themselves, especially at places like Matru Gaya or if no male heir is present.
Are there online services available for performing the Tarpan in Varanasi?
Yes, several reputable platforms and organizations (like Prayag Pandits, etc.) offer online Tarpan services. They arrange for Pandits in Varanasi to perform the Tarpan rituals on the designated ghats on behalf of devotees who cannot travel. These services often include options for live streaming (via video call like Zoom) or receiving recorded videos of the ritual being performed with the devotee’s ancestral details. Costs vary based on the service provider and package inclusions.
When is the ideal time to perform Tarpan in Haridwar?
Tarpan can be performed in Haridwar on various occasions:
- Daily (Nitya Tarpan): Traditionally, devout Hindus may perform Tarpan daily after their morning bath. Doing this at a holy place like Haridwar adds merit.
- Pitru Paksha: This 16-day period is the most important time for ancestral rites. Performing Tarpan daily throughout Pitru Paksha in Haridwar is highly recommended and considered very beneficial.
- Amavasya (New Moon): Every Amavasya is considered auspicious for Pitru Tarpan. Sarva Pitru Amavasya (the Amavasya during Pitru Paksha) is especially significant.
- During Shradh: Tarpan is an integral part of the Shradh ceremony, performed before Pind Daan.
- Solar/Lunar Eclipses: Special Tarpan may be performed during eclipses.
- Upon visiting Haridwar: Anytime one visits the holy city is an opportunity to perform Tarpan for ancestors.