Pitra paksha, commonly known as Shraadh, is a fortnight-long period dedicated to people who have departed from this world. It is a period during Hindus connect with their loved ones who are no more by performing rituals prescribed in the scriptures. In this period, the near and dear who have left for their heavenly abode are remembered by families. Shraadh is about sending good vibes, positive feelings, well wishes and joy to the departed souls, wherever they may be.
It is believed that Lord Yamraj gave a boon to mankind, letting them make offerings during this period to their loved ones who are not with them anymore. This period is marked by elaborate food preparations consisting of sweets, savouries and foods that the departed enjoyed. Prayers, pujas, yagnas are performed in their memory. The special food prepared on the occasion is then offered to Brahmins, who are considered to be the rightful entities to consume this special food during Pitra paksha. It is believed that the essence of this food, through the Brahmins, reaches the ancestors giving them peace.
Departed souls could be in any one of the seven lokas — Bhur loka, Buva loka, Swar loka, Maha loka, Jnana loka, Tapa loka or Satya loka — or in appropriate bodies or in space. In whichever body these souls are, and in whichever condition, they receive the benefit of pujas and yagnas and food offered to Brahmins. The benefit could reach them in the form of a divine sound, taste of sweet nectar, a vision of peace, or a motherly touch.
There is also a chance that the ancestors for whom the rituals are performed have been reborn in our world and are around us as a child, a neighbour, a servant or as a pet. In their new form we cannot recognise them, but after the conclusion of rituals the vibrations that spread in the entire universe search for the ancestral souls in whichever form they are and give them the benefit.
Sadhguru Sri Rameshji is a modern age spiritual guru and founder of Poorna Ananda, a centre for spiritual evolution and joyful living. Visit www.poornaananda.org
