Shradh Bhajan & Bhojan – 20 Sept

Paying homage to deceased ancestors 

The word “Shradh” is derived from the Sanskrit term श्राद्ध “Shraddha,” which meaning faith, devotion, and respect. Also known as Pitru Paksha. Rituals performed to express respect and gratitude towards deceased ancestors. It is believed that by performing these rites, one ensures peace and contentment for the souls of ancestors, helping them progress in their journey toward liberation (Moksha).

Shradh is a set of rituals performed in Hindu tradition to offer prayers and food to the departed souls of ancestors. According to Hindu philosophy, a person owes three debts in their lifetime: debt to the gods (Deva Rin), debt to the teachers and sages (Rishi Rin), and debt to the ancestors (Pitru Rin). Shradh helps to repay this Pitru Rin by ensuring peace and satisfaction for the souls of deceased ancestors. But also, expressing gratitude for the lineage and seeking blessings from those who shaped one’s existence.

Shradh rites are observed on the death anniversaries (tithis) of one’s parents and forebears according to the Hindu lunar calendar. Additionally, a collective ceremony for all ancestors occurs during Pitṛ Paksha (the “fortnight of ancestors”) right before Sharad Navaratri in autumn, marking a period when families connect with their lineage.

The primary activities of the Shradh ceremony include:
– Vishwadeva Sthapana: Invoking ancestral divinity
– Pindadāna: Offering rice balls mixed with milk, ghee, sugar, and honey to the departed souls
– Tarpana: Presenting water mixed with sesame seeds, barley, kusa grass, and flour to appease ancestors
– Feeding Brahmins and offering food to crows as symbolic messengers of spirits
– Charity and Donations – making charitable donations, especially to the needy and Brahmins, is encouraged during Shradh. Offering food, clothes, and other necessities during this time adds spiritual merit to the family performing the rituals.

– Mahālaẏa: Marks the beginning of Durga Puja festivities and a key day for ancestor offerings
– Sarva Pitṛ Amavasya: The final day of Pitṛ Paksha when unmarked ancestral Shradh can be performed
– Annual Tarpan ceremonies at sacred rivers like the Ganges or Shradh Sarovar
These practices deepen familial bonds across generations and reinforce the continuity of heritage and dharma.

FREE EVENT!

All devotees welcome 

We will make arrangement for families to display photos of their loved ones who have passed away:

• Donation of £25
• Display one photo on the group table in front of the hall 
• Display one photo on slide show on the large screen (provide in advance)
• Family can perform Aarti in front of the group photos table (family to provide their own Aarti Thaali)

Hindu Remembrance Day – UK

Join the Hindu communities around UK for Hindu Remembrance Day (HRD), an annual day for British Hindus to honor those who dedicated their lives to protect and preserve Hindu Dharma.
We will also offer our gratitude to the personal sacrifices of parents, grandparents and generations of Hindus before us – offer our special thanks for the role they played in our success as a community and the efforts they made to preserve our Hindu Dharma.

General running order:

• 3:00 – 3:30pm – Welcome,  Tea and light Refreshments
• 3:30 – 6.30pm – Bhajan, Thaar, Aarti, etc.
• 6:30 – 7.30pm Mahaprashaad