Pitru Paksha 2023: A Compassionate Guide to Observing Shradh
Pitru Paksha, also known as Shradh or Mahalaya Paksha, is a sacred period in the Hindu calendar dedicated to paying homage to our ancestors. It is believed that the three generations of deceased ancestors live in an in-between realm called Pitrilok and during Pitru Paksha, they are freed by the god of death – Yamaraj or Yama, to visit their relatives and family members and accept gifts, food and water.
Pitru Paksha, every year, is observed for fifteen days when people visit the river Ganges or banks of other rivers and offer food, water and gifts to their deceased ancestors through priests and Brahmins. It is considered an extremely auspicious time of the year. Auspicious rituals such as Shradh, Pind Daan and Tarpan are performed during this time of the year.
In 2023, these 15 days of reverence will take place from September 29 to October 14.
Here are a few dos and don’ts that we should keep in mind.. During this time, it is believed that the spirits of our departed loved ones visit the mortal realm, and it becomes our duty to offer our respect and prayers.
Here are the dos and don’ts of observing Pitru Paksha 2023 in a compassionate way.
Dos:
1. Perform Pinda Dana: One of the most significant rituals during Pitru Paksha is Pinda Dana. It involves offering rice balls mixed with sesame seeds and ghee to the departed souls. This act is believed to provide peace and salvation to the ancestors’ souls.
2. Cleanliness Matters: Keep your surroundings and yourself clean during this period. It is essential to maintain purity and respect for the rituals. Observing cleanliness is an act of devotion.
3. Offer Tarpan: Offering tarpan is another crucial ritual. It involves pouring water mixed with black sesame seeds, barley, and rice into a cupped hand to remember and honor your ancestors. It is typically done in a river or a sacred body of water.
4. Charity and Feeding the Needy: Performing acts of charity and feeding the less fortunate during Pitru Paksha is highly recommended. It is believed that these virtuous deeds benefit the souls of your ancestors.
5. Recite Mantras and Prayers: Chanting mantras and prayers from the Rigveda or other sacred texts can bring peace to your ancestors’ souls. Seek the guidance of a knowledgeable priest for the appropriate mantras.
Don’ts:
1. Avoid Non-Vegetarian Food: During Pitru Paksha, it is customary to abstain from non-vegetarian food, as it is considered inauspicious. Opt for vegetarian meals to maintain the sanctity of the period.
2. Refrain from Celebratory Events: It is best to avoid weddings, celebrations, and joyous occasions during these 15 days. Instead, focus on paying respects to your ancestors.
3. Limit New Ventures: It is not advisable to start new ventures or make significant life changes during Pitru Paksha. This period is dedicated to reflection and remembrance.
4. Respect Food Offerings: If you receive food offerings from others during this time, accept them with humility and gratitude. Do not waste any offerings, as they are made with a sacred intention.
5. Be Mindful of Your Behavior: Maintain a respectful and solemn demeanor during Pitru Paksha. Avoid unnecessary arguments, conflicts, and negative emotions.
Sacred Mantras should chant during the Pitra Paksha
During Pitru Paksha, reciting specific mantras can be a meaningful way to honor and offer prayers to your ancestors. One of the most commonly recited mantras during this period is the Mahalaya Tarpanam mantra. Here is the Mahalaya Tarpanam mantra in Sanskrit along with its English transliteration:
Mahalaya Tarpanam mantra
Sanskrit Mantra:
ये केचित्कर्मकृतं प्राहुर्येकेचिज्जानतामृताः।
पापे दीपे यदाकुर्वन्ति दीपं तेषां सुखं तमाः॥
Transliteration:
Ye kechit karmakritam prahuryekechij janatamritah.
Pape deepe yadakurwanti deepam tesham sukham tamah.
This mantra emphasizes the importance of performing righteous deeds and offering light (deepam) to those ancestors who have departed. It is believed that by reciting this mantra and offering tarpan (water oblation) while remembering your ancestors, you can help bring peace and salvation to their souls.
Pitra Gayatri Mantra
The Gayatri Pitra Mantra is a sacred mantra dedicated to honoring one’s ancestors. It’s recited during rituals and ceremonies like Pitru Paksha to seek blessings and peace for the souls of departed ancestors. Here is the Gayatri Pitra Mantra in Sanskrit along with its English transliteration:
Om Devatabhyah Pitrubhyashcha Mahayogibhyah Eva Cha.
Namah Swadhayai Swahayai Nityameva Namo Namah.
This mantra expresses deep respect and reverence for both the divine and ancestral energies. It acknowledges the importance of offering homage to the devatas, pitrus (ancestors), and great yogis while invoking the blessings of Swadha (the divine energy of offerings) and Swaha (the divine energy of sacrifice).
Chanting this mantra with sincerity during rituals, especially during Pitru Paksha, can be a meaningful way to connect with these spiritual energies and seek their blessings.
In Conclusion:
Pitru Paksha is a time of reflection, remembrance, and respect for our ancestors. By following these dos and don’ts, you can observe this sacred period with devotion and compassion. Remember that the essence of Pitru Paksha lies in honoring the departed souls and seeking their blessings for a harmonious life.
As you observe Pitru Paksha 2023, may your actions bring solace to your ancestors’ souls and pave the way for their eternal peace.
September 19:-09:45AMto08:44PM, Duration –10Hours59Mins
Story behind not to see moon in GaneshChathurthi:-
In Hindu mythology and scriptures it is mentioned that the moon should not be seen on Ganesh Chaturthi. The belief that seeing the moon on Ganesh Chaturthi brings bad luck or is inauspicious is based on folklore and traditions rather than a direct mention in any Purana.
The story often associated with this belief is the one where Lord Ganesha, known for his love for sweets, consumed a lot of ‘laddoos’ (sweet treats) on Ganesh Chaturthi. As a result, he became quite full and round. When he saw the moon and laughed at its shape, it is said that the moon’s brightness was reduced, leading to a curse that anyone who sees the moon on that night would face false accusations or slander.
This belief varies among different regions and communities, and not everyone follows this tradition. It’s important to note that these customs are symbolic and cultural rather than being rooted in any specific Purana or scripture.
Ganesh Chaturthi, also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, is a widely celebrated Hindu festival that honors Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity of wisdom, prosperity, and new beginnings. This sacred festival holds immense importance in Hindu culture and is observed with great devotion and enthusiasm across India. In this article, we will delve into the profound significance of Ganesh Chaturthi according to the Puranas, ancient Hindu scriptures that provide insight into the origins and rituals associated with this auspicious occasion.
The Puranic Origins:
The roots of Ganesh Chaturthi can be traced back to the Puranas, particularly the “Ganesha Purana” and the “Mudgala Purana.” These ancient texts narrate the divine birth of Lord Ganesha, making this festival an occasion to celebrate his arrival on Earth.
According to the Puranas, Goddess Parvati created Lord Ganesha out of sandalwood paste to guard her while she bathed. She bestowed life upon him, instructing him to guard the entrance and allow no one to enter. When Lord Shiva, Parvati’s husband, returned and was denied entry by Ganesha, a fierce battle ensued, resulting in the beheading of the young deity.
Recognizing their mistake, Lord Shiva and Parvati set out to make amends. They granted Ganesha a new life by attaching the head of an elephant to his body. This act of resurrection symbolizes the cycle of life and the belief in the deity’s power to overcome obstacles.
The Celebrations:
Idol Installation: One of the central rituals of Ganesh Chaturthi is the installation of beautifully crafted clay idols of Lord Ganesha in homes and public pandals. Devotees believe that Lord Ganesha visits Earth during this time and blesses them.
Pujas and Aartis: Elaborate pujas (rituals) are performed daily, accompanied by the chanting of Vedic hymns and devotional songs. The aarti (ceremonial worship with light) is a highlight, where devotees offer lamps and incense to the deity.
Modak Offerings: Modaks, sweet dumplings considered Lord Ganesha’s favorite, are prepared and offered as prasad (sacred food) to the deity. This symbolizes the sweetness of life and the rewards of devotion.
Visarjan (Immersion): The festival culminates with the immersion of Ganesha idols in rivers or lakes. This act signifies the departure of Lord Ganesha, carrying away the troubles and obstacles of his devotees.
Significance:
New Beginnings: Ganesh Chaturthi is a time for new beginnings. Devotees seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings to remove obstacles and pave the way for success in their endeavors.
Unity and Harmony: The festival brings people from diverse backgrounds together in a spirit of unity and harmony. Communities come together to celebrate, share, and strengthen bonds.
Environmental Awareness: In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on eco-friendly celebrations. Many are opting for clay idols and eco-friendly immersions to protect the environment.
Ganesh idol sthapna (installation)
It is an essential ritual during Ganesh Chaturthi and other occasions when you wish to worship Lord Ganesha. Here’s a simplified step-by-step guide on how to perform Ganesh idol sthapna along with a mantra:
Items Needed:
Ganesh idol (preferably made of clay or eco-friendly materials)
Clean and decorated platform or altar
Flowers
Incense sticks
Lamps or diyas
Fruits and sweets
Turmeric powder, kumkum (vermilion), and sandalwood paste
A small kalash (pot) filled with water
A coconut with its husk intact
Red cloth or chunri
Procedure:
Purify Yourself: Begin by taking a bath and wearing clean clothes. Ensure you are in a peaceful and contemplative state of mind.
Prepare the Idol: Place the Ganesh idol on the decorated platform or altar. Make sure it is facing east or towards the main entrance of your home.
Kalash Sthapna: Place the kalash (pot) filled with water near the idol. Decorate it with turmeric, kumkum, and sandalwood paste. Place a coconut on top of the kalash.
Invocation: Light the incense sticks and lamps. Offer some flowers to Lord Ganesha and recite the following mantra or any other mantra you prefer:
“ॐ गं गणपतये नमः” (Om Gam Ganapataye Namaha)
Repeat this mantra while visualizing Lord Ganesha’s presence.
Offerings: Offer fruits and sweets to the deity as a symbol of your devotion.
Aarti: Perform the aarti by rotating the lamp or diyas in a circular motion in front of the idol while singing a Ganesh aarti or chanting mantras.
Prayers: Offer your personal prayers, express your desires, and seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings for your family’s well-being and success.
Distribution of Prasad: After completing the puja, distribute the prasad (offered sweets and fruits) among family members and guests.
Visarjan (Immersion): On a later date, traditionally after one and a half, three, five, seven, or eleven days, depending on your preference, you can perform the immersion (visarjan) of the idol in a water body while chanting Ganesha mantras and bidding farewell.
Remember that this is a simplified guide, and the specific rituals and mantras may vary based on regional customs and personal preferences. It’s essential to perform the puja with utmost devotion and a pure heart, seeking Lord Ganesha’s blessings for your endeavors and removing obstacles from your path.
Important Mantras during Ganesh Puja
During Ganesh Puja, several mantras are commonly recited to invoke the blessings of Lord Ganesha and seek the removal of obstacles. Here are some important Ganesh mantras:
Om Gam Ganapataye Namaha:
This is a widely used and powerful mantra for invoking Lord Ganesha’s blessings and removing obstacles.
Vakratunda Mahakaya Mantra:
“Vakratunda Mahakaya Suryakoti Samaprabha
Nirvighnam Kuru Me Deva Sarva-Kaaryeshu Sarvada”
Ganesha Mool Mantra:
“Aum Shreeng Hreeng Kleeng Glaung Gang Ganapataye Var Varad Sarvajanm Me Vashamanaya Svaha”
Ganesha Dwadasanama Stotram:
This is a mantra consisting of twelve names of Lord Ganesha, often recited during the puja.
Ganesha Atharvashirsha:
This is a sacred text containing Ganesh mantras and hymns. It is considered highly auspicious when recited during the puja.
Remember to recite these mantras with devotion and focus during your Ganesh Puja to seek Lord Ganesha’s blessings, wisdom, and the removal of obstacles from your life and endeavors.
Jaidev Jaidev Jai Mangal Murti |
Darshan Maatre Man Kaamna Purti |
Conclusion:
Ganesh Chaturthi, rooted in the Puranas, holds profound significance in Hindu culture. It is a celebration of faith, unity, and the belief in Lord Ganesha’s ability to remove obstacles and grant blessings. As this festival continues to evolve, it reminds us of the enduring power of tradition, spirituality, and environmental consciousness in our modern lives. Ganpati Bappa Morya!
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Disclaimer:- The information provided on this content is for education and information purpose to it’s viewer’s based on the astrology or personal experience. You are someone else doesn’t necessarily agree with them part or whole. Therefore you are advised to take any decision in your own discretion . The channel or channel owner will not directly or indirectly responsible in any way.
भाद्रपद मास के शुक्ल पक्ष की तृतीया तिथि को हरितालिका तीज का व्रत किया जाता है। इस बार ये व्रत 18 सितम्बर, सोमवार को है। विधि-विधान से हरितालिका तीज का व्रत करने से कुंवारी कन्याओं को मनचाहे वर की प्राप्ति होती है, वहीं विवाहित महिलाओं को अखंड सौभाग्य मिलता है। इस व्रत की विधि इस प्रकार है-
विधि
इस दिन महिलाएं निर्जल (बिना कुछ खाए-पिए) रहकर व्रत करती हैं। इस व्रत में बालूरेत से भगवान शंकर व माता पार्वती का मूर्ति बनाकर पूजन किया जाता है। घर को साफ-स्वच्छ कर तोरण-मंडप आदि से सजाएं। एक पवित्र चौकी पर शुद्ध मिट्टी में गंगाजल मिलाकर शिवलिंग, रिद्धि-सिद्धि सहित गणेश, पार्वती एवं उनकी सखी की आकृति (प्रतिमा) बनाएं।
प्रतिमाएं बनाते समय भगवान का स्मरण करें। देवताओं का आह्वान कर षोडशोपचार पूजन करें। व्रत का पूजन रात भर चलता है। महिलाएं जागरण करती हैं और कथा-पूजन के साथ कीर्तन करती हैं। प्रत्येक प्रहर में भगवान शिव को सभी प्रकार की वनस्पतियां जैसे बिल्व-पत्र, आम के पत्ते, चंपक के पत्ते एवं केवड़ा अर्पण किया जाता है। आरती और स्तोत्र द्वारा आराधना की जाती है।
भगवती-उमा की पूजा के लिए ये मंत्र बोलें-
ऊं उमायै नम:,
ऊं पार्वत्यै नम:,
ऊं जगद्धात्र्यै नम:,
ऊं जगत्प्रतिष्ठयै नम:,
ऊं शांतिरूपिण्यै नम:,
ऊं शिवायै नम:
भगवान शिव की आराधना इन मंत्रों से करें-
ऊं हराय नम:,
ऊं महेश्वराय नम:,
ऊं शम्भवे नम:,
ऊं शूलपाणये नम:,
ऊं पिनाकवृषे नम:,
ऊं शिवाय नम:,
ऊं पशुपतये नम:,
ऊं महादेवाय नम:
पूजा दूसरे दिन सुबह समाप्त होती है, तब महिलाएं अपना व्रत खोलती हैं और अन्न ग्रहण करती हैं।
The Significance of Hartalika Teej:
Hartalika Teej holds immense significance in Hindu culture. It is a day dedicated to the worship of Goddess Parvati, the epitome of devotion and love. According to Hindu mythology, Parvati undertook severe penance to win Lord Shiva’s love and devotion, and her determination and devotion have made Hartalika Teej a celebration of love and marital harmony.
Rituals and Customs:
Fasting: Women observe a day-long fast on Hartalika Teej. This fast symbolizes their devotion and love for their husbands, as they pray for their well-being and long life.
Traditional Attire: Women dress in colorful traditional attire, often adorning themselves with henna, jewelry, and bangles. Red and green are the predominant colors associated with this festival.
Idol Worship: A special idol of Goddess Parvati, usually made of clay or sand, is created by women. This idol is adorned with flowers and worshipped with incense, lamps, and sweets.
Swinging: Women, especially married ones, enjoy swinging on beautifully decorated swings, singing traditional songs, and sharing stories of love and devotion.
Offering Prayers: Married women gather to offer prayers to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati for the well-being of their husbands and families.
Delicious Sweets: Sweets like jaggery-based dishes, ghevar, and malpua are prepared to add sweetness to the celebrations.
Teej Katha: Women often gather to listen to the Teej Katha (the story of Hartalika Teej), narrating the tale of Parvati’s devotion and Lord Shiva’s acceptance of her love.
Puja Vidhi and Mantra
The Pujan Vidhi (worship procedure) for Hartalika Teej typically involves several steps to honor Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva. Here’s a simplified version of the Pujan Vidhi for this auspicious occasion:
Items Required:
Idol or Picture of Goddess Parvati: You can use a clay idol or a picture of Goddess Parvati for the puja. Ensure it is clean and placed on a sacred platform.
Incense Sticks (Agarbatti): Choose fragrant incense sticks to create a pleasant atmosphere.
Lamps or Diyas: Prepare oil lamps or diyas to light during the puja.
Flowers: Offer fresh flowers to the deity.
Fruits: Keep a selection of fresh fruits as an offering.
Sweets: Prepare or buy traditional sweets like jaggery-based dishes, ghevar, or malpua to offer’s.
Rice: Keep some rice grains for the offering.
Water: Store clean water in a vessel.
Pujan Vidhi:
Cleanse Yourself: Before starting the puja, take a bath and wear clean clothes.
Set Up the Deity: Place the idol or picture of Goddess Parvati on the platform. If you have a Shiva Linga or picture of Lord Shiva, you can place that nearby.
Light the Lamp: Light the oil lamps or diyas and place them in front of the deity. The light symbolizes the presence of the divine.
Incense: Light the incense sticks and wave them in a clockwise direction in front of the idol.
Offer Flowers: Offer fresh flowers to the deity while chanting prayers or mantras. The most common mantra for Hartalika Teej is the “Om Parvatipatiaye Namah” mantra.
Offer Fruits and Sweets: Place the fruits, sweets, and rice in front of the idol as an offering. You can also offer water in a clean vessel.
Prayers and Mantras: Chant prayers and mantras dedicated to Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva. You can either recite traditional Teej kathas (stories) or perform aarti (a ritual of waving a lit lamp in front of the deity).
Seek Blessings: During the puja, seek blessings for the well-being of your family, especially your spouse if you are married.
Distribute Prasad: After completing the puja, distribute the prasad (offered sweets and fruits) among family members and guests.
Breaking the Fast: If you were fasting, break your fast after the puja with a meal consisting of the prasad and other vegetarian dishes.
Remember that while this is a simplified version of the Pujan Vidhi for Hartalika Teej, the actual rituals and mantras can vary from region to region and among different families. It’s advisable to consult a priest or an elder in your family for specific guidance if you have any doubts about the procedures or mantras.
Mantras
Here are some mantras that you can chant during the Hartalika Teej puja to invoke the blessings of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva:
1. Om Parvatipatiaye Namah:This mantra is dedicated to Goddess Parvati and can be chanted to seek her blessings.
2. Om Namah Shivaya:This is one of the most powerful and widely recited mantras dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a universal mantra that can be chanted with devotion.
3. Om Shakti-Rupinyai Namah:This mantra honors the divine feminine energy of Goddess Parvati.
4. Om Uma-Maheshvarabhyam Namah:It pays homage to the divine couple, Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva.
5. Om Hreem Shreem Kleem Parameshwari Swaha:This mantra is used for invoking the blessings of the supreme feminine energy, which is represented by Goddess Parvati.
6. Om Tatpurushaya Vidmahe Mahadevaya Dhimahi Tanno Rudra Prachodayat:This is a mantra dedicated to Lord Shiva, seeking his guidance and blessings.
7. Om Aing Hring Kling Chamundaye Viche:While this is a Durga mantra, it is often chanted to invoke the protective and powerful aspects of Goddess Parvati.
Remember to chant these mantras with devotion and a pure heart during your Hartalika Teej puja. You can choose one or more of these mantras depending on your preference and the specific rituals you follow. It’s important to pronounce the mantras correctly, so you may want to learn the proper pronunciation from a knowledgeable source or your Astrologer if you’re not familiar with them.
Conclusion:
Hartalika Teej in 2023 promises to be a day filled with love, devotion, and tradition. This sacred festival not only strengthens the bonds of love between married couples but also serves as a reminder of the determination and devotion of Goddess Parvati. As families come together to celebrate, it reinforces the cultural and spiritual values that have been cherished for generations. May this Hartalika Teej bring happiness, prosperity, and marital bliss to all who observe it. Happy Hartalika Teej 2023!
Blog Link:-https://analystastro.com/astro-articles/
Disclaimer:- The information provided on this content is for education and information purpose to it’s viewer’s based on the astrology or personal experience. You are someone else doesn’t necessarily agree with them part or whole. Therefore you are advised to take any decision in your own discretion . The channel or channel owner will not directly or indirectly responsible in any way.
