Asthi Visarjan is a sacred Hindu ritual that involves immersing the ashes (Asthi) of the deceased in the holy river Ganges in Varanasi.
Here is a stepwise guide to do Asthi Visarjan in Varanasi:
1. Collecting the Asthis
After the cremation, the remains, which include bones and ashes, are collected. This is usually done on the third, seventh, or ninth day after death. The Asthis is then placed in a kalash (pot) and covered with a piece of clean cloth (Usually white or red).
2. Book a Pandit in advance in Varanasi
Once you have decided your date of travel to varanasi, book your pandit for the ceremony in advance with Prayag Pandits. One knowledgeable pandit of your regional language will be booked for your mentioned time and date. This makes sure you do not face any delay and all the materials for ceremony is made ready in advance.
3. Traveling to Varanasi
Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus. Families travel to Varanasi with the Asthis for the immersion ceremony. This ceremony is also called as Asthi Nimmajanam in South India (our team is always available to plan your travel to varanasi).
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4. Navigating to the Ghat
In Varanasi, several ghats are considered auspicious for Asthi Visarjan, such as Raja Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Assi Ghat, and Dashaswamedh Ghat. Pandit ji along with a coordinator will be ready for the ceremony on the ghat. Coordinator will also assist you in navigating the ghat as well as will be there during the ceremony.
5. Performing the Asthi Visarjan Poojan
The poojan involves offering various items like rice, black sesame seeds, flowers, and fruits to the Asthi kalash. Pandit will guide you through the rituals. The pandit will recite mantras and perform the necessary poojan (worship) with the Asthi kalash. The family members may also be asked to recite certain mantras during the ceremony.
6. Immersing the Asthis
After the poojan, the Asthis are taken to the middle of the river Ganges on a boat or at the waterfront area. The pandit will perform the final rites before the Asthis are immersed in the river, symbolizing the soul’s release from the cycle of rebirth and its journey towards moksha (liberation).
7. Post-Visarjan Rituals
After the immersion, it is customary to take a bath in the Ganges. Some families also perform additional rituals like Pind Daan or Brahmin Bhoj as a part of the Asthi Visarjan process.
8. Online Asthi Visarjan Services
For those who cannot travel to Varanasi, Online Asthi Visarjan services are available. These services allow you to send the Asthi Kalash to Varanasi, where pandits perform the rituals on your behalf and send you photographs or videos of the ceremony. This can be done live via zoom or whatsapp call. Contact us to know more.
Here is a video how how Asthi Visarjan in Varanasi is organised by Prayag Pandits-
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Who can perform Asthi Visarjan?
A: Asthi Visarjan can be performed by the son, daughter, brother, sister, wife, or husband of the departed. In the absence of immediate family, a friend or a representative (pratinidhi) can perform the rituals.
Q: Is there a specific time frame within which Asthi Visarjan should be done?
A: It is generally recommended to perform Asthi Visarjan as soon as possible, ideally within ten days of the person’s death. However, the exact timing may vary based on regional and caste-specific customs.
Q: Can Asthi Visarjan be done for someone who died outside India?
A: Yes, Asthi Visarjan can be performed for someone who died outside India. Non-resident Indians (NRIs) or their families can use online services to have the Asthi Visarjan performed in Varanasi.
Q: Can women perform Asthi Visarjan?
A: Yes, women can perform Asthi Visarjan. While traditionally it has been done by male members of the family, there is no scriptural injunction preventing women from performing this ritual.
Q: What should I do if I cannot travel to Varanasi for Asthi Visarjan?
A: If you are unable to travel to Varanasi, you can opt for online Asthi Visarjan services. These services will arrange for the Asthi to be immersed in the Ganges on your behalf, and you will receive documentation of the ceremony.
Remember, the process of Asthi Visarjan is a deeply personal and spiritual journey for the family. It is a way to honor the departed soul and help it attain peace and liberation.