Pind Daan at Prayagraj FAQs
When to do Pind Daan in Prayagraj?
Pind daan in Praygaraj
- Pind Daan can be performed anytime during the year in Prayagraj, but the most auspicious time is considered to be during the Pitru Paksha period, which is a 15-day period before Navratri. This year in 2024, it is falling between 17 September to 2 October.
- Pitru Paksha usually falls in the Hindu month of Ashwin (September-October). Many Hindus flock to Prayagraj during this time to perform the sacred ritual for their ancestors.
- While Pitru Paksha is considered the most favorable, Pind Daan can also be done on the death anniversary (tithi) of the deceased or on any other date as per the Hindu calendar.
- The specific muhurat (auspicious time) for the ritual on the chosen day is usually suggested by the pandit based on the birth star of the deceased.
So in summary, while Pind Daan can be done anytime, Pitru Paksha in the month of Ashwin is deemed the most opportune period. One can also choose the death anniversary date or consult a priest to determine a suitable date and muhurat.
View our pind daan in prayagraj package here.
When is the best time to perform Pind Daan in Prayagraj?
Although Pind Daan can be performed on any day, the most auspicious times include:
Pitru Paksha (16 days dedicated to ancestors)
- Amavasya (New Moon Day)
- Makar Sankranti, Karthik Purnima, and Magh Mela period
- During a solar or lunar eclipse (highly powerful)
Performing Pind Daan during these periods at Triveni Sangam helps in resolving Pitru Dosha and ensures that ancestors bless their descendants with peace and prosperity.
What is the significance of sesame seeds and rice balls in Pind Daan?
Sesame seeds (Til) and rice balls (Pindas) represent nourishment for the departed souls. The Garuda Purana states that sesame seeds are sacred and have the power to satisfy the hunger of ancestral spirits. The rice balls symbolize food and gratitude, ensuring that the souls find peace and do not remain in a restless state.
How can we find a trustworthy and knowledgeable Pandit for Pind Daan when we arrive in Prayagraj?
This is important, Prayagraj has many Pandits, especially near the Sangam area and Ghats. To find a reliable one:
- Seek recommendations from family or friends who have previously performed rites in Prayagraj.
- Ask your family priest back home if they have contacts here.
- Look for Pandits associated with established ashrams or temples in Prayagraj.
- Observe Pandits performing rituals – look for someone who seems calm, knowledgeable, and focused on the rites rather than just money.
- Speak humbly with a potential Pandit beforehand. Ask about their experience with Pind Daan in Prayagraj, the process they follow, and the expected dakshina. Trust your intuition. A genuine Pandit in Prayagraj will prioritize the dharma and explain things clearly.
Where to do Pind Daan in Prayagraj?
Prayagraj, earlier known as Allahabad, is considered one of the most sacred places for performing Pind Daan, as it is situated at the holy confluence (Triveni Sangam) of three rivers – Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati. The main ritual is performed on the banks of the Ganga river or at the Triveni Sangam, where many pandits and priests are available to assist.
Some of the famous and important places for Pind Daan in Prayagraj include:
- Triveni Sangam
- Ganga Ghat
- Yamuna Ghat
The ritual starts with a holy dip in the sacred waters of Ganga and Yamuna at the Sangam, followed by the primary rituals and rites performed by the priests on the river banks.
Why is Prayagraj considered sacred for performing Pind Daan?
Prayagraj, also known as Triveni Sangam, is the holiest confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. Scriptures state that performing Pind Daan here grants direct Moksha (liberation) to ancestors. The Matsya Purana and Garuda Purana emphasize that rituals performed at Prayagraj bear a hundredfold merit compared to other places. The presence of Lord Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva makes this land spiritually charged, ensuring that the departed souls attain peace and freedom from the cycle of birth and death.
What if someone is very old or ill and absolutely cannot travel to Prayagraj Can Pind Daan still be done?
Ideally, the Karta should be physically present at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj to perform Pind Daan for maximum benefit. The physical act of offering at this holy site holds great power. However, our Dharma is also compassionate. In truly unavoidable circumstances where travel to Prayagraj is impossible due to severe health reasons or other major obstacles, you can consult a trusted Pandit here in Prayagraj. Sometimes, arrangements can be discussed where a local Pandit performs the ritual on your behalf (proxy Pind Daan), with you performing certain actions or sankalpa remotely. This requires immense trust and is generally considered a secondary option. Personal presence in Prayagraj is always the most recommended path if feasible.
Is it necessary to take a bath in the Sangam before performing Pind Daan?
Yes, bathing in the Triveni Sangam is essential before starting the rituals. The confluence of the three sacred rivers purifies the body and soul, making the devotee ready for Pind Daan. Scriptures mention that those who take a dip here with faith cleanse seven generations of sins.
What should one donate after performing Pind Daan in Prayagraj?
After the ritual, it is highly recommended to perform Daan (charity) as it multiplies the benefits of Pind Daan. Suitable donations include:
- Food and grains for Brahmins and the needy
- Clothes and footwear for the poor
- Cows, gold, or silver (if possible, as per affordability)
- Til (sesame), ghee, and jaggery for spiritual merit
- Feeding crows, cows, and dogs, as it symbolizes feeding the departed souls
This is called Pitru Daan, which pleases the ancestors and brings their blessings
What is the cost of Pind Daan in Prayagraj?
The cost of Pind Daan in Prayagraj can vary depending on the rituals performed, the number of priests engaged, and any additional services opted for.
- On average, a basic Pind Daan ceremony conducted by a single priest can cost anywhere between Rs. 4,500 to Rs. 11,000.
- However, more elaborate ceremonies with additional rituals, offerings, and priests can cost upwards of Rs. 15,000 to Rs. 50,000 or more.
- Many Pind Daan packages are offered by tour operators and online services, which include:
- Priest and ritual fees
- Puja items and offerings
- Transportation and accommodation (in some cases)
- Additional Puja and daan ceremonies like gau daan, vastra daan, bhojanam daan etc.
- For example, our pind daan package for Pind Daan in Prayagraj is priced at Rs. 7,100 including ritual at Triveni Sangam, priest fees, puja items, and a boat ride. View details here.
- We have one other package which includes pindaan puja at triveni sangam, priest fees, puja items, a boat ride and gau daan puja, View details here.
- Online Pind Daan booking services also offer packages where the rituals are performed on your behalf, with prices ranging from Rs. 5,100 to over Rs. 30,000 based on the inclusions.
- It’s best to check and compare a few providers, understand the inclusions, and opt for services from reputed and verified organizations for a hassle-free experience.