Pitru Paksha 2023: What Is The Difference Between Pind Daan, Shradh, Tarpan And Panchabali Bhog

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Pitru Paksha 2023: Pitru Paksha is a 16-day lunar period in the Hindu calendar that is dedicated to honoring one's ancestors or pitrs. This year it will start on 29 September and it will end on 14 October 2023.

This is where Anushasana Parva comes in. It is also known as the 'Book of Instructions,' and is one of the 18 parvas (books) of the Indian epic Mahabharata which contains the teachings and instructions imparted by Bhishma Pitamah (Bhishma) to Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Pandavas, on various aspects of life, dharma (duty/righteousness), and spirituality. Bhishma imparts these teachings to Yudhishthira while lying on the bed of arrows, where he lies mortally wounded during the Kurukshetra War.

In this religious text, it is mentioned that Bhishma Pitamah have referred to the idea that souls bound by attachment and unfulfilled desires may linger and wait for the opportunity to meet or interact with their descendants or children during Pitru Paksha. Therefore, the rituals and offerings performed during this period are considered to help the departed souls find peace and move on in their spiritual journey.

Through this post, let us know the difference between the important rituals of Pitru Paksha such as Shraddha, Tarpan, Pind Daan, and Panchbali Bhog. Read on.

What Is Shraddha In Pitru Paksha?
'Shradha' is a Sanskrit term and has originated from two words 'Sat' which means 'truth' and 'Adhar' meaning 'basis'. Therefore, it means any act that is performed with utmost faith and devotion. There is a saying which says- "Shraddhyaa Kriyate Yaa Saa": This means it is a ritual to express unconditional reverence towards deceased ancestors, pay homage to them and get their blessings.

What Is Tarpan In Pitru Paksha?
Tarpan is a word that has originated from the Sanskrit word 'Trup' which means to 'satisfy'. It is said that when the desires of the deceased ancestors are not fulfilled their souls become restless and wait for their wishes to be fulfilled in order to get salvation. To help these souls achieve the perfect sense of bliss water is offered to them during Pitru Paksha.

What Is Pind Daan In Pitru Paksha?
The term Pind Daan is a combination of two words 'Pind' and 'Daan'. It means donating or engaging in charitable activities. Daan is generally a ritual performed by the deceased ancestor's family members (preferably their children and spouses). This ritual is very popular in Gaya, Bihar. There is a belief that only after Pind Daan the soul can attain liberation.

Shradh Tarpan and Pind Daan, these three rituals are performed facing south direction only. While offering tarpan, one must keep black sesame seeds on their hands.

What Is Panchabali Bhog In Pitru Paksha?
There are certain rituals that are performed in Pitru Paksha such as Shraddha, Pinda Daan, and Tarpan. While offering food to the ancestors during Shradh, keep in mind that food must be taken out for Panchbali. Panchabali means five creatures and these creatures are cow, dog, crow, gods, and ants.

What Is Panchbali Bhog?
During Pitru Paksha, Shraddha and Tarpan are performed for the ancestors. Pancha Gras is taken out during the Shraddha ritual, which is also called Panchabali Bhog. It is said that without offering Panchabali, the ancestors remain dissatisfied and do not accept the Shraddha rituals.

In the Hindu scriptures, there are 5 creatures who should be offered Panchabali Bhog. The first offering is made for the cow, which is known as Gau Bali. The second one is taken out for dogs, it is known as Kukkur Bali. The third one is taken out for the crow, which is known as Kaak Bali. The fourth one is taken out for the gods, which is called Dev Bali and the fifth one is taken out for ants which is known as Pipilikadi Bali.

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