Tarpan at Varanasi FAQs
Who is eligible to perform Tarpan in Varanasi?
Traditionally, the eldest son performs Tarpan for his parents and ancestors. In his absence, younger sons, grandsons, great-grandsons, or other male relatives can perform it. The performer should ideally be accompanied by his wife if married
What attire is appropriate for performing Tarpan at the Varanasi ghats?
Men typically wear a clean, white, unstitched dhoti, sometimes with a simple upper cloth (angavastram) or bare-chested. Women usually wear a simple, clean saree (light colors are often preferred). The emphasis is on traditional clothing, purity, and simplicity, avoiding elaborate or black attire
Which are the most important locations for Tarpan in Varanasi?
While Tarpan can be performed at many ghats along the Ganga in Varanasi, some are particularly favoured:
- Dashashwamedh Ghat: The main and most famous ghat, known for its vibrant spiritual atmosphere and proximity to Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
- Assi Ghat: Located at the confluence of the Ganga and Assi rivers, it’s popular and offers a relatively serene environment for rituals.
- Manikarnika Ghat: Primarily a cremation ghat, but rituals like Tarpan are performed nearby due to its immense sanctity and association with Moksha.
- Harishchandra Ghat: Another major cremation ghat, also considered sacred for ancestral rites.
- Panchganga Ghat: Believed to be the confluence of five rivers, considered auspicious.
- Kedar Ghat: An Important ghat associated with the Kedareshwar Temple.
- Pishachmochan Kund: While not a Ganga ghat, this sacred pond in Varanasi is specifically renowned for rites aimed at liberating souls troubled by untimely deaths or negative influences.
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
What is the approximate cost for Tarpan in Varanasi?
The cost for Tarpan alone, if performed as a brief, standalone ritual, might range from INR 500 to INR 2000. However, Tarpan is often part of a larger Pind Daan or Shraddha ceremony. Packages for these in Varanasi can range from basic (around INR 2500 – 7000) to more elaborate ones (INR 7000 – 15,000+), depending on the duration, materials, number of priests, specific ghats used, and inclusion of items like Brahmin Bhojan (feeding Brahmins). Online services also offer packages within similar ranges. It’s best to clarify costs upfront.
For which ancestors is Tarpan specifically offered in Varanasi?
Tarpan is generally offered to the immediate three preceding generations (father/mother line), maternal ancestors, and other departed relatives (siblings, uncles, aunts), Gurus, friends, and even unknown souls (through ‘Sarva Pitru Tarpan’). Performing these rites in Varanasi is believed to benefit all departed souls connected to the performer
What is the role of the Ganga River in Varanasi Tarpan rituals?
The Ganga is central to Tarpan in Varanasi. She is considered a purifier of sins and a direct conduit to the divine. Offering Tarpan water into the Ganga is believed to directly reach the ancestors, quenching their spiritual thirst and washing away negative karmas. Taking a holy dip (snan) in the Ganga before or after Tarpan is an essential part of the purification process
What is Tarpan in the specific context of Varanasi ?
Tarpan, meaning ‘to satisfy’, is the Hindu ritual of offering water mixed with specific ingredients (like black sesame seeds) to gods, sages, and especially deceased ancestors (Pitrus). In Varanasi, performing Tarpan along the banks of the sacred Ganga river is considered exceptionally auspicious due to the city’s status as Kashi, the ‘City of Liberation’ (Moksha), and the holy river’s purifying power. It’s an act of reverence seeking ancestral blessings and peace in this deeply spiritual city
How can one find a reliable Pandit for Tarpan in Varanasi?
Pandits can often be found directly at the major ghats (like Dashashwamedh, Assi). One can also seek recommendations from their hotel, local contacts, or reputable pilgrimage service providers (online platforms like Prayag Pandits, Mahatarpan, Devaseva, Yatradham list priests or offer booking services). It’s wise to discuss the procedure and Dakshina (priest’s fee) beforehand.
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.