Varshik Shradh Puja With Brahmin Bhojan In Ujjain

About this puja

An annual shradh with Brahmin bhojan at Shipra Ghat, Ujjain, held on the death anniversary of an ancestor.

Varshik Shradh, also called Varshshardh or annual Shraddha, is held once a year on an ancestor's death anniversary by the lunar calendar. At Shipra Ghat in Ujjain, the family offers food, water and the departed person's favourite things. The rite is mainly for one ancestor, and the prayers also remember the last three generations on both the father's and the mother's side. It is a way to remember loved ones, keep a spiritual bond with them, and pray for the peace and moksha of their souls. The devotee first bathes in a holy river and takes the sankalp in their own name. The priest sets up 12 kalash and places the sacred pind offerings on them. For Pind Daan the family offers rice, jaggery and sweets, with the priest guiding each step and chanting. The ritual ends with Brahmin bhojan. Many families choose Ujjain for ancestral rites, especially near the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple. Devotees believe that performing this shradh regularly brings peace to the ancestors and blessings to the family.

Why devotees perform it

Devotees believe it brings the blessings of departed ancestors It is said to help ease negative influences in the devotee's life It is traditionally linked with greater harmony and well-being in the family Devotees also hold that the ancestors' souls find peace

Samagri

• Ganga jal (गंगा जल)
• Kusha grass (कुशा घास)
• Milk (दूध)
• Dhoop (धूप)
• Rice (चावल)
• White thread (सफेद धागा)
• Flowers (पुष्प)
• Fruits (फल)
• Tulasi (तुलसी)
• Black sesame (काला तिल)
• Honey (शहद)
• Ghee (घी)
• Akshat (अक्षत)
• Betel nut (सुपारी)

Frequently asked questions