Pind Daan at Varanasi FAQs
Who is best Pandit to do Pind Daan in Varanasi or kashi?
Choosing the best pandit for Pind Daan in Varanasi depends on the family’s preferences and requirements. It is advisable to:
- Check online platforms: Websites and platforms specialize in religious services and can connect you with reputable pandits like Prayag Pandits and Prayag Samagam.
- Seek recommendations: From friends or family members who have previously performed Pind Daan in Varanasi.
- Consult local religious organizations: They can suggest experienced and knowledgeable pandits.
View our Pind daan package here.
Is it possible to do Pind Daan for a friend or unrelated person?
- Yes, Pind Daan can be done for any departed soul if done with genuine Shraddha (faith and devotion).
- Scriptures permit offerings for teachers, friends, gurus, or even unknown souls.
- The performer must take Sankalp with the proper intent and clarity in the relationship to the deceased.
What should one bring for the Pind Daan ritual?
Most items are arranged by the purohit, but it’s good to bring:
- A photo of the deceased (optional).
- Clean white clothes for males, and sober-colored clothes for others.
- Til (sesame), rice, honey, ghee, if preferred from home.
Donations and offerings like vastra, fruits, dakshina, etc., are also customary.
Is it necessary to perform Pind Daan every year in Varanasi?
It is not mandatory to do it every year in Varanasi; however:
- One-time Pind Daan in Kashi has eternal spiritual benefit.
- Annual Shraddh or Tarpan can be performed at home or local tirtha.
Devotees often come again on milestone death anniversaries or during Pitru Paksha.
What are the ideal dates or occasions for performing Pind Daan in Varanasi?
- The most auspicious time is during Pitru Paksha, the 16-day period dedicated to ancestors.
- Other ideal days include Amavasya (New Moon), Gaya Shraddha, Eclipses, and Tithi Shraddha of the departed soul.
- Any day is spiritually significant in Kashi, but these periods are especially sacred.
Can women participate in or witness the Pind Daan ceremony?
Traditionally, the ritual is performed by male heirs, but women can:
- Be present and offer prayers.
- Perform Tarpan or participate through Brahmin daan and feeding of the poor.
Some spiritual centers in Varanasi also allow guided rituals for widows or daughters with modified procedures.
How long does the entire Pind Daan ritual take in Varanasi?
The full process usually takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on:
- Number of ancestors being remembered.
- Specific dosh nivaran rituals (if any).
Devotees are advised to reach early in the morning, usually before sunrise or during Brahma Muhurta for maximum spiritual benefit.
Where in Varanasi should the Pind Daan be performed?
Holy sites in Varanasi for Pind Daan include:
- Manikarnika Ghat (most auspicious).
- Panchganga Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat.
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple premises (for special blessings).
Some devotees also prefer doing it at Ganga banks near Assi Ghat for peaceful settings.
Where to do Pind Daan in Varanasi or Kashi?
Varanasi has several sacred ghats where Pind Daan rituals are performed, including:
- Manikarnika Ghat: One of the holiest places to perform Pind Daan due to its association with Lord Shiva.
- Dasaswamedh Ghat: Another significant ghat for these rituals.
- Pishach Mochan Kund: Known for liberating the soul from the cycle of rebirth.
- Harishchandra Ghat: Also a revered place for performing Pind Daan.
View Pind daan in Kashi package here.
What happens to the Pindas after the ritual is complete?
- After offering Pindas, they are usually immersed in the Ganga River at sacred ghats like Manikarnika.
- Alternatively, they may be placed on a Peepal tree or offered to cows, birds, or fire, depending on the custom followed.
- The act signifies symbolic nourishment of the soul, helping it ascend toward peace.