If the Shraddha includes a Homa (often done for annual Shraddhas), oblations of ghee and rice are poured into the fire.
Using sacred mantras, the spirits of the ancestors are invoked into the Bhoktas (or the Dharbha Brahmana). The Karta shifts his sacred thread ( Yajnopaveetam ) from the left shoulder to the right shoulder—a position known as —which is mandatory for all ancestral rites. Step 5: Pitru Yajna (Oupasana / Shraddha Homa)
The entire ritual focuses heavily on Satva Guna (purity). The usage of specific verses emphasizes surrendering the fruits of the action to the lotus feet of the Lord ( Satvika Tyagam ).
In the Sri Vaishnava tradition, the two major subsects have subtle differences in their approach to ritual:
Sri Vaishnava Shraddha Prayoga is a sacred ritual that holds great significance in the tradition of Sri Vaishnavism. By understanding and performing this ceremony, individuals can pay homage to their ancestors, seek their blessings, and promote their own spiritual growth. May this comprehensive guide serve as a valuable resource for those interested in exploring the depths of this vital ritual.
The layout of the ritual space differs slightly:
The Sri Vaishnava procedure (Prayoga) is distinct due to its adherence to the or Vaikhanasa Agamas and the specific Sanskrit/Tamil hymns used during the ceremony. 1. Sankalpam
Shraddha Prayoga, also known as Tarpana or Shraddha, is a Vedic ritual performed by the descendants of an individual to offer homage to their ancestors. The term 'Shraddha' is derived from the Sanskrit words 'shraddha,' meaning faith, and 'prayoga,' meaning application or ritual. This ceremony involves offering oblations of water, sesame seeds, and rice to the ancestors, seeking their blessings and peace.
The primary objective is to satisfy three generations of ancestors: (Father) Pitamaha (Grandfather) Prapitamaha (Great-grandfather) Key Components of the Prayoga
refers to the specific ritualistic procedures and manuals used by the Sri Vaishnava community (followers of Ramanuja and the Sri Sampradaya) to perform Shraddha (ancestral rites).