The very essence of “Shraddha” lies in performing sacred acts for the Pitras with sincere faith and devotion. During this period, devotees remember their ancestors and perform Tarpan, Pind Daan, charity and acts of service in their honour. Taking a special Sankalp at the beginning of Shraddha is considered a way of fulfilling one’s responsibilities towards the ancestors and praying for freedom from Pitru Rin. With this sacred intention, this special ritual will offer prayers for ancestral peace across four Moksha Teerths.

🛕 Why are Ancestral Rituals Across Four Moksha Teerths Considered Special?

Kashi, Haridwar, Gaya and Badrinath are all deeply associated with Moksha and ancestral rituals in Sanatan tradition. Each sacred Teerth holds its own spiritual significance for Pitru Shanti. Therefore, performing rituals for one’s ancestors across all four sacred destinations with a single Sankalp at the commencement of Shraddha is considered a special opportunity to pray for their peace, satisfaction and liberation.

Kashi is revered as Lord Shiva’s sacred city of Moksha and has an ancient tradition of rituals dedicated to Pitru Shanti and Sadgati.

Haridwar, situated on the sacred banks of the Ganga, has long been a prominent place for performing Tarpan and Shraddha for departed ancestors.

Gaya is regarded as one of the foremost pilgrimage destinations for Pind Daan and Pitru Tarpan, where devotees pray for the satisfaction and liberation of their ancestors.

Badrinath Dham Teerth Kshetra is also associated with an ancient tradition of Pitru Karma, Tarpan and Pind Daan and is revered as a sacred region for prayers for ancestral liberation.

Together, Kashi—the city of Moksha, Haridwar—the sacred land of Maa Ganga, Gaya—the holy land of Pind Daan, and Badrinath—the divine abode of Lord Badrinarayan—make this four-Teerth ancestral ritual spiritually significant.

🌿 What is the Significance of Til Tarpan and Gau Seva?

Til Tarpan is considered one of the important ancestral rituals performed during Pitru Paksha. In this ritual, water and black sesame seeds are offered while remembering departed ancestors and praying for their peace and satisfaction. Sesame seeds hold special significance in Pitru Karma and are traditionally used in Shraddha and Tarpan rituals. Charity and service are also considered sacred acts during Pitru Paksha. Gau Seva is an important expression of this spirit of service. As part of this ritual, Gau Seva will be performed in the name of the ancestors, with prayers that its punya be dedicated to them and that their blessings remain upon the family.

🕉️ What Will Happen in This 4 Moksha Teerth Pitru Rin Mukti Mahapuja?

On the sacred commencement of Shraddha, a Sankalp will be taken in your name and Gotra, followed by special ancestral rituals across Kashi, Haridwar, Gaya and Badrinath Dham Teerth Kshetra. Pitru Smaran, Pitru Shanti Mahapuja and Til Tarpan will be performed according to tradition, with prayers for the peace, satisfaction and Sadgati of departed ancestors. Gau Seva will also be performed in the name of the Pitras, with special prayers for freedom from Pitru Rin, relief from Pitru Dosha, removal of family obstacles, growth of family lineage, prosperity and ancestral blessings for present and future generations.