Mahalaya Sarvapithra Shraddha Poojah in Sri Rangapatna
Mahalaya Sarvapithra Shraddha Poojah is a significant Hindu ritual observed during the period of Pitru Paksha, which is a fortnight dedicated to honoring one's ancestors. In Brahmin culture, this ritual is considered to be of great importance and is performed with deep reverence and devotion. Mahalaya Sarvapithra Shraddha is performed on the Amavasya or New Moon day in the month of Bhadrapada (September-October). It is believed that on this day, the souls of the ancestors descend to the earth and accept the offerings made by their descendants. During the ritual, Brahmin families offer Pinda daan or oblations of food and water to their ancestors. They also perform Tarpan, which is a sacred offering of water and sesame seeds, to propitiate the souls of their ancestors. The Brahmin priests perform the rituals while chanting mantras and hymns, seeking the blessings of the ancestors. The ritual is performed by the male members of the family, who wear a dhoti and an angavastram, while the women wear traditional sarees. The family members observe a strict fast and perform the rituals with devotion and sincerity. In Brahmin culture, Mahalaya Sarvapithra Shraddha Poojah is considered to be a way of expressing gratitude and paying homage to one's ancestors. It is believed that by performing this ritual, the souls of the ancestors are pleased and their blessings bring prosperity and well-being to the family. It is also believed that performing this ritual helps the souls of the ancestors attain Moksha or liberation from the cycle of birth and death.