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Date: 2023-06-12 16:41:09 | By: Admin

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Exploring the Mystical Rituals of Asthi Visarjan Poojan

Asthi Visarjan Poojan is a sacred ritual in Hinduism performed to bid a final farewell to the departed souls by immersing their ashes or bones in a holy river or sea. This age-old tradition holds immense significance in Hindu culture, as it is believed to help the departed souls attain moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Below, we will explore the Asthi Visarjan rules, customs, rituals, and associated beliefs.

 

The Significance of Asthi Visarjan Poojan

The foundation of Asthi Visarjan Poojan is the idea that the five elements of earth, water, fire, air, and space make up the human body. The physical body is reduced to ashes or bones through cremation after death. Asthi Visarjan Poojan allows the soul to be released from its mortal form and enables it to merge with the natural elements, ultimately leading to spiritual liberation.

 

Rituals and Customs

• Selecting an Auspicious Date and Time: The first step in performing Asthi Visarjan Poojan is choosing an auspicious date and time for the ritual. This is typically determined by a priest or an astrologer, who takes into consideration the planetary positions and other astrological factors to identify a spiritually favourable moment.
• Gathering the Ashes: After the cremation of the departed soul, the ashes or bones are collected and preserved in a container, often an urn. The ashes need to be handled with the utmost respect and care because they are regarded as sacred artefacts. The container may be embellished with flowers and maintained in a specific location until the ritual's start time.
• Preparing for the Ritual: Before the commencement of the Asthi Visarjan Poojan, the family members undergo a purification bath and wear clean clothes as a symbol of spiritual cleanliness. Additionally, they prepare and clean a sacred location, which may be in their home or close to a body of water like a river or sea. The sacred area is frequently decorated with flowers, incense, memorial plaques, and other lucky objects.
• Invoking the Deities: The priest or a family member initiates the ritual by invoking the blessings of Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and other deities associated with the afterlife. This is done by reciting mantras and offering prayers in an effort to obtain heavenly direction and blessings for the deceased person's path. The family members participate in these invocations, expressing their devotion and love for the departed.
• Chanting Mantras and Performing Pooja: The priest leads the family in the chanting of sacred mantras, prayers, and hymns specific to Asthi Visarjan Poojan. The family members actively participate in the pooja by offering flowers, incense, lamps, and other traditional offerings to the deities. The chanting and prayers create a spiritually charged atmosphere, invoking divine energy and creating a connection between the physical and spiritual realms.
• Expression of Devotion: The family members actively participate in the rituals, expressing their devotion, love, and respect for the departed soul. They make an offering, ask for blessings, and pray for the deceased's eternal happiness and release from the cycle of birth and death.
• Personalized Rituals and Offerings: Depending on regional customs and personal preferences, families may incorporate additional rituals or specific offerings into the Asthi Visarjan Poojan. These rituals could include the recitation of specific mantras, performing aarti (ritual of waving a lit lamp), or offering favourite items of the departed soul.
• Post-Visarjan Rituals: After the immersion, the family may perform additional rituals or prayers to conclude the Asthi Visarjan Poojan. As a means to respect the deceased soul and ask for their blessings, they can provide food or donations to the less fortunate.
• Remembrance and Mourning: Following the completion of the ritual, family members may observe a period of mourning and remembrance for the departed loved one. This may entail doing specific rituals, offering prayers, and exchanging stories in order to honour the deceased and find solace in their memories.

It is important to note that while these are general rituals and customs associated with Asthi Visarjan Poojan, variations may exist based on regional traditions, cultural practices, and individual preferences.

 

Beliefs and Philosophy

Asthi Visarjan Poojan is deeply rooted in Hindu philosophy and beliefs. It is thought that by carrying out this ceremony, the path of the deceased spirit is aided, enabling them to find salvation. It is believed that submerging the ashes in holy water cleanses the soul of its earthly ties and gets it ready for ultimate union with God.

While the specific beliefs and philosophies may vary among individuals and communities, the underlying essence of Asthi Visarjan Poojan remains consistent with honouring the departed, facilitating their spiritual journey, and finding solace in the eternal nature of the soul. The shared experience strengthens bonds, fosters unity, and reinforces the belief in the enduring power of love and remembrance.

 

Conclusion

Asthi Visarjan Poojan is a deeply spiritual and emotionally significant ritual in Hindu culture. It acts as a link between the material and spiritual worlds, enabling the departed to experience eternal freedom and tranquilly. The ceremony supports the belief in the cycle of life and death while also providing comfort to the mourning family. By following the prescribed customs and performing the pooja with devotion and sincerity, the participants in Asthi Visarjan Poojan are believed to create a sacred atmosphere that aids the departed soul in its journey towards moksha.

 

While Asthi Visarjan Poojan is deeply rooted in Hindu traditions, it is important to note that variations may exist based on regional customs and personal beliefs. Some families may choose to perform the ritual at specific pilgrimage sites, such as Asthi Visarjan in Varanasi or Haridwar, which are considered highly sacred for immersion ceremonies. Others may opt for alternative methods, such as burying the ashes in the earth or performing symbolic rituals if immersing in a holy water body is not feasible.

 

It is essential to approach Asthi Visarjan Poojan with reverence and respect, seeking guidance from experienced priests or knowledgeable individuals to ensure the ritual is conducted appropriately. Additionally, understanding the spiritual significance behind the rituals can deepen the personal experience and provide solace during a time of loss.