What Shraddha is
Shraddha is the annual rite performed for a departed parent or ancestor on the tithi of their passing — not on the Gregorian anniversary. Because it follows the lunar calendar, the Gregorian date shifts every year. The Ritual Calendar in this app resolves the correct date automatically once you record the tithi.
The karta
The rite is performed by the karta — usually the eldest son, though practice varies and daughters perform it in many families today. The karta fasts from the previous evening or from the morning until the rite is complete.
What is performed
- Sankalpa naming three generations of ancestors with their gotra.
- Tarpana — offerings of water mixed with black sesame.
- Pinda pradana — rice balls offered to the departed and to the preceding two generations.
- Vaishvadeva and brahmana bhojana — feeding brahmanas, or a sankalpa in lieu where that is not practical.
Practical notes
Cook satvik food without onion or garlic. Keep darbha grass, black sesame and banana leaves ready. The space should face south. The rite runs 2 to 3 hours and is performed in the aparahna period — early afternoon — which is why afternoon slots are offered for this service.
If you cannot be present
Hiranya shraddha — a substitution using a monetary offering in place of the full feeding — is a valid alternative recognised by the shastras when circumstances prevent the full rite. Ask for it when booking.