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Jaya Jaya Sri Sudarsana !
Jaya Jaya Sri Sudarsana !
QUESTION & ANSWERS ON SRARDDHA

& THARPAN
Introduction.
After having his some doubts cleared on Gaya Srardha, through the FAQ pages of this
website, Mr. Gopala Krishna has written many mails asking for clarifications in our Srardha
and TharppaNa procedures. This question & answer is prepared to have an enlightening
about Sraardha and Tharpan. I am thankful to Mr. Gopalakrishnan Ramaiyer, now settled in
Chennai for condensing our email exchanges into this Q & A format. The Questions some
times you may see as something you always wanted to ask and get the Answer. The answers
are given in simple understanding manner. In fact it is the compression of the various
questions put to me in different occasions by visitor Sri R. Gopala Krishnan who is a retired
officer from BSNL Trivandrum. In fact, the summarized Q&A below is out of our various e-
mail exchanges on the subject.
Q1. Sir – Who has performed sraardha first? Who has coordinated the procedures for the
sraardha we perform today? Has any body amended it?
A1. Good question! It will be astonishing to you if I say that Sri Varaha moorthy has performed sradha
first. Sage Bodhayana has co-ordinated the procedures for Sraadha. But his procedures are lengthy. For
instance, even while Bhokthas are taking food, Kartha is to continue performing the lengthy Jayathi
Homa. These procedures are later amended by sage Apasthambha which is the basis of Sraadha Niyama
now we follow.
Dear Sir, You would have heard lengthy manthras for Bodhaya soothra while you perform annual
upakarma. I hope this much will satisfy your question.
Q2. Sir, I have heard Sraadha has to be performed by self. Is it possible?
A2. Sraadha niyama say so. But due to the elaborate procedures and complexities in them, we seek the
Sasthrikals known as Bruhaspathi or Vadyar to guide. Now it has become order of the day to invite
Sasthrikals, Bruhaspathi known as Vaadyar.
If you refer Ithihasa (The History) Ramayana, you will read Sri Rama performed Sraadha for Dasaratha
himself
Q3. Sir is it correct that Sraadha has to be performed in Aparannam. What is your view?
A3. Again Sraadha niyama say so. We are in a fast moving world. Can the present day kartha and
Bhoktha can remain that much time? Kartha or Bhoktha can be a sugar patient. Can they wait so much?
However it is apt to perform sraadha so that the Bhokthas take their food in the afternoon. I hope after
reading this you will not get displeased with either sasthrikals or Bhokthas if they come a little late by 11
AM or so. I hope this reply satisfy you.
Q4. Sir, Your answers make me more curious. You have said Sradha Niyama two times to
me. Where can we have sraadha niyama now?
A4. It is interesting to note that you are more curious. One sradha niyama authority is vaidyanatheeyam
or Vaidyanatha deekshitheeyam. You can refer it to clarify many of your doubts. This is actually a Tamil
translation of smrithi muktAphalam, named as vaidhyanAdha dhIkshithIyam, compiled and translated by
Sri Venkatrama Shastry and Sri Ramamoorthy Shastry, at the behest of srI KAnchi ParamAchAryAl in
1985. I can give you the details of this book since you are very curious.
Title: samkshEpa dharma sAstram ,
Publishers: Heritage India Educational Trust,
#6, Sanskrit College street, Mylapore,
Chennai - 600 004 Latest edition: Third, 1990
This book deals with many other topics too. Just for your information, the book is really a boon as the
price is astonishingly very very little comparing to its worth. Since you are at present settled in Chennai, I
think you could get one copy from them. There are many books in other languages too. As an appendix,
this book also clarifies on Aasaucha sadakam.
Q5. Sir, This question was in my mind for a long time. Now I put it to you. Do Viswamdeva
(Viswedava) escort or guide the pithru?
A5. I think you are going deeper in to sraadha. I will try to answer all your queries, For your question
Viswam deva is both. Even if the pithru is in nether world he is to be brought by Viswam deva only. I
hope this gives satisfactory answer to you.
Q6. Sir, This is another question in my mind for a long time. During sraadha we feed only
one Bhoktha. Then how do we call Vasu, Rudra Aditya swaroopaya and pithrus from three
generations? I hope I am making you to think putting questions of elaborative nature.
A6. Dear Sir, Surely the answer to this question is rather than elaborative they are sookshma in nature.
How ever I will answer the question in simplest manner.
Basically understand in Sraadha a set of procedures is followed to recollect the pithru. The set
procedures as told are followed. Many of these procedures have inner meanings too still not fully
explained or can understand from the sraadha books.
If you go through the manthras you will learn not only three generations but jnatha Anjatha pithrus too
you invite and feed. This is sankalpa. You are performing sraadha to the pithru who has left on that
thithi.
You have asked why we refer in Sradha Vasu Rudra Aditya swaroopaya. They are sradha deities.
If you are going to invite a relative and his friends too are there will you invite your friend only? Why for
courtesy call others too? Will we not send them too some compliments through him?
One bhoktha whom you invite represent the pithru for whom sradha is performed. We identify him in
addition with Sraadha deities Vasu, Rudra and Aditya. Usually Vasu is pithru deity for whom sraadha is
done. Rudra and Aditya represent other pithru deities whom you invite. It is told by identifying the invited
bhoktha with Vasu, Rudra and Aditya deities the sraadha offerings are taken to all invitees. As I first said
the explanation is sookshma. This indirectly hints pithru is another deity like viswamdeva (Viswedevas).
Q7. Sir Do our pithru reach swarga?
A7. Why doubt? The ultimate destination being Kailasam aka Paramapadam, the souls wander from one
location to other, depending on their merits and punya bhalam. They reach their destinations by various
steps; pithrulokam, devalokam, etc. The actual paramapatham, Srivaikuntham or kailasam are one and
the same as per the philosophical readings.
Q8. Excuse me sir; you have said depending on the merit the pithru reach Paramapadam. If
so what happen by performing sraadha to a pithru reached Swarga. Is it too sooshma to
explain?
A8. But having no way to know the facts, we are instructed to continue the srardham till our lifetime.
Here too, we do it not only for the parents who left, but also for three-generation viz. grand and great
grand parents. Why? If by any chance, if our parent reached the destination but any of the grand parents
left wandering, then it is for them to gain through this srardham. What if none of them wandering but all
reached safely to the Kailasam or the Paramapadam? It will benefit Njaatha ajnjaatha pithrus.
The very basic reason for having prescribed to perform it for three generation is the most vital part of the
value added srardham.
Q9. Sir, Do not think I am philosophical and too much pondering. When we offer the seventh
pinda during sraadha it go to Jnatha Anjatha pithrus. Am I correct if I say it pertain to
sahothra?
<STYLE="MSO-BIDI-FONT-WEIGHT: normal?A9. Mr, Gopala Krishnan- It is not you are going
philosophical but it is a desire to know more on sraadha. I am happy you are showing so much interest. I
am too much happy to answer you …
Ok, Sir, you are correct. Jnatha Anjatha Here, when you perform the srardham with homam, after
offering twice each to Pithru, Pithamaha & Prapithamaha - the seventh time offering is to Njaathi -i.e.
distant cousins who left the earth. In case of anyone who left without any such ceremony performed, let
the seventh step offering reach them – that is for the Sahothra njaathi. (Njaathaagnjaatha,
pithrupyapcha, yathaa swaahaah:) By doing this seventh Ahuthi with Havis that reaches to the Sahothra
Daayathi, who might have left without any kriya/kainkaryam performed for many reasons (No issues,
died at unknown place, nobody knows who is who when left, or some of them with issues but they never
cared to perform the rituals from the beginning etc. etl.)
<STYLE="MSO-BIDI-FONT-WEIGHT: normal?So, even if our parents, grand & great grand parents
reached the abode, it is for us to continue the <STYLE="MSO-BIDI-FONT-WEIGHT: normal?thithi
srardham till our life time only for those who might have fortunate.<STYLE="MSO-BIDI-FONT-WEIGHT:
navy? color: normal;.
Q10. Sir, I have a doubt. Do the tharpanam done on sraadha day itself at the end is not as
per niyama?
<STYLE="MSO-BIDI-FONT-WEIGHT: normal?
A10. Sir, Is your entire query on sraadha is over and I can take a relief?
Surely It is local codification in course of time. Actually it has to be performed only on the next day. But it
has become practice of the day in context of sasthrikal and Kartha. However some thing done is better
than not done. We are also becoming Apasthamba some times!!!
Q11. Sir, My questions on sraadha are not over please. The Tharpanam question on sraadha
day came to my mind and I raised it. Sir, Many perform Hiranya sraadha in place of sraadhan
with Homam. Why there are these two types of sraadham? Sir, Hiranya sraadham as per
rules is to be conducted by those who are physically not capable and much aged or who are
extremely poor.
<STYLE="MSO-BIDI-FONT-WEIGHT: normal?A11. Sir, Well asked an important question. Hiranya
sraadha is told for people who have got certain limitations like very aged and not able to perform the
long procedure srarddha etc.
<STYLE="MSO-BIDI-FONT-WEIGHT: normal?All capacitate (it is not financial alone but physical and
mental too) people should perform sraadha with Homam. True benefit is only achieved through
performing Srardham with HOMAM! Only when performed with homam, these are given thrice to the
parents - first through the agni swaroopam, then through the Brahmmana Bhojanam and then lastly
through the Pinda pradhanam (For Sama and Rg Vedhis three pindams and for Yajur Vedhis with six
pindams – and for Bhodhayana soothra followers it is 24 Pindams!). Only on doing these three steps,
then the remainder cooked rice becomes Pithru sesham.
One has to eat this pithru seasham to gain the benefits of the srardham <STYLE="MSO-BIDI-FONT-
WEIGHT: navy? color: normal;. The pithru seasham is known blessings directed to us which is left
untouched by many - without knowing the values!
In hiranya sraadham there is no pithru sesham, which is the main blessing of pithru. I hope after reading
this answer at least able people will perform sraadha with Homam.
Q12. Sir, who all can take food prepared for sraadha, after offering to Bhoktha?
A12. It can be taken by close relations and by sagothra too. Normally, other Gothra persons do not share
the srardha food. However, children below the age of 7 years are allowed eat the srardha food. But in
Srivaishnava Thenkalai sampradaya, it is known as ishta pandhi, where any one who is not related, too
can eat, if one wish.
Q13. Another important question is coming to my mind Sir, in those days when there was
monthly period for the wife how did the kartha-performed sraadha? Now a day the problem
may not appear perhaps by taking medical assistance.
<STYLE="MSO-BIDI-FONT-WEIGHT: normal?A13. It appears you are coming to practical
sides<STYLE="MSO-BIDI-FONT-WEIGHT: navy? color: normal;.<STYLE="MSO-BIDI-FONT-WEIGHT:
normal?In those days, in villages they had a very big place at backyard for the women to take shelter
during the inconvenient periods. They used stay at a distance, where you won’t even hear them. (Even
hearing them talking during their periods was not allowed and mostly restricted to few house members).
In Sama Veda sampradaya, they perform only after the fifth day, after Kartha’s wife taking bath. In Rig
Veda’s followers too it was the same. But in Yajur Veda followers, they can perform it even in the
absence of one’s wife during the Srarddha.
In normal terms, for every sect and sub-sect, allowed their female family member with periods to stay
elsewhere during and earlier day of sradha.
During the Punyahavachanam, they used to add a word in sankalpam “rajaswala aasoucha
nivruthiyartham” and then perform the Graha suddhi to continue with the ceremony. Oh, thinking of the
present day cubicles and flat system and apartments!!!!.
Q14. Sir, I know there are different types of sraadhas. There is Atma pinda sraadha with
special manthra too. My question sir, who are advised to perform Jala srradha and Hiranya
sraadha?
<STYLE="MSO-BIDI-FONT-WEIGHT: normal?A14. Hiranaya sraadha I have already replied. How ever I
will give one more clarification and express the srardha niyama as explained by my distant cousin, late Sri
Mukkur Lakshminarasimhachariar, (who was very popular for his divine writings in many periodicals, very
specifically for an article series in Kalki "Kurai Onrum Illai Govinda") has given some hints on the Srardha
procedures. He even wrote an article in one of the Kalki Deepavali supplement and I give the contents here below
for the readers to take a note. The Srardha niyama in three different types with each having values on Uthama,
Madhima & Athama paksha:
The Uthama factors: Srardha with Homam
With five Brahmins - one each for the post of Brahmma, Bruhaspathi, Viswedeva, Pithru and Sri Mahavishnu as
Srardha Samrakshaka. - Uthamothamam.
Bruhaspathi, viswedeva, Pithru & Vishnu - Uthamam
Bruhaspathi, Vishwedeva & Pithru - Madhimam
Bruhaspathi & Bhokta Pithru - Adhamam
The Madhima factors - Srardha without Homam but only with sankalpam:
Sankalpa srardha without homam but bhojanam to three Brahmins plus vaadyar - Uthamam
sankalpa Srardha without homam but with two bhoktas - Viswedeva & Pithrus + Vadyar - Madhimam
Sankalpa Srardha without homam but with only one Bhokta + vadyar - Adhamam
Adhama factors - No homam, No bhojanam but only offering raw rice, raw banana with pulses, jaggery etc.
with Sankalpam:
offering to 3 Brahmins - Uthamam - Visvedeva, Pithru, Sri Mahavishnu and Bruhaspathi - Uthamam
offering to two Brahmins - visvedeva, Pithrus - Madhimam
offering to only one Brahmin - Adhamam
Adhamoadhamam:
Offering to only one Brahmin that too without any sankalpa mantra - this is known as Aama srardham.
And still, if one cannot do any of the above for varied reasons, it was said to perform at least the Thila TharppaNam
on that day and offer it to the Vishnu padam to remember the Thithi! This is the least one can afford - if one is so
poor, sick and disabled. If one cannot even afford the Thila (seasame), then just only with plain water!
If age factor and monetary considerations are not favourable, one has to perform to the minimum
possible way, i.e. by Sankalpam with Hiranyam. And Sri Lord Krishna wants at least a TharpaNam by
offerring it to the Vishnu Padam (only, sick, aged and poor can do the srardham just only with
TharpaNam!).
Q15. Sir, What is pithru dosha? Does this appear on account of non-performance of
sraardha?
A15. Very good, now you have come to related topics. The pitru dosha is supposed to be caused
by non-performance of sraardha rites. It. causes childlessness, obstacles and failures in many
ways.
Q16. Sir, This question is regarding a very big confusion in my mind. Once I wrote in the
Yahoo iyer 123 group for pithru 1 year is equal to a day. A few replied back to me it is a
month and not one year. Please clarify.
A16. Dear Sri Gopala Krishnan, it is not you only, but many have this confusion. Actually, the period of
day & night and months are quite different in different logam, just like the one in the planets and
celestial phenomena. If pithru's happen to be in pithru logam, for them Sukla paksha/Krishna paksha
each fifteen days counts as day and night.
If they reach the deva gana status, then Dakshinayanam & Uthrayanam period of six months each stands
for them as a day and night.
Here I will add a little bit more so that my point will be further enlightened. Pithru do not get hungry as
we. For the first one year after death we offer masikam-monthly feeding. After annual sraadha once in a
year. This mean once in 12 days. For pithru this feeding is sufficient. This is the procedure followed now.
If they have reached Devaloka it is ones a day.
Please note pithru ned not be in pithru loka or deva loka. There are six worlds above us and seven
worlds below us.
In this context I hope you recollect the story of sage Sandipani. Sree Krishna offered him Gurudakshina
after praying to Lord Varuna and Going to the nether world bringing back his deceased son…
Though you have not asked, still I like to clarify a little bit about tharpan in this context.
Monthly Tharpanam is not pithru feeding. It is to get their blessings. Many confuse that tharpanam is for
feeding pithru. I will discuss further on tharpanams if you have any query on it . As I said earlier in my
answer there are certain sooshma instructions. Annual sraadha is one among them. I hope you are
contented with this reply.
Q 17. We normally perform sraadha on a specific given thithi of the month of death. Sir, Can
we postpone/advance to any earlier or later thithi?
A17. It is desired sraadha be performed on the fixed thithi only. However there are some exceptions told
in the scripts, like - (1) If Vadhyar, Bhokta failed to turn, then also you can postpone it to a convenient
day. (2) If due to war, mutiny, calamity etc. one can postpone the same to any other convenient day, till
the normalcy returns! Or if any death take place amongst one's close relatives (aasoucham) one can
postpone srardha to the day when aasoucham is over.
One compulsory rule is, you can postpone the thithi sraadham but cannot advance it!” These
are the main rulings. I hope you are satisfied with the reply.
Q18. Excuse me sir, if sraadha can be postponed why it should not be advanced? Can you
kindly clarify?
A 18. Mr Gopala Krishnan, I answered postponement of sraadha is permitted on extreme conditions. It is
very simple logic to answer your question why it should not be proponed
.
Shall I start with a simple example. If you are taking meals at 1 PM regularly you will feel hungry and
turn to dining table only by that time. Particularly if you are having any health problem timely food is a
must. Either earlier or later you may not go. You know it very well. Similar is the case of the pithru. They
will not turn up earlier.
You will put the question- then why postponement is approved?
Yes, again the same example for easy understanding - you go to the dining table and if your wife say just
wait another 10 minutes, you may (Have to?) wait. But everyday if you have to wait surely will you not
become angry?
Refer my answer for postponement of sraadha. On extreme conditions only it is permitted. I hope this
answer is convincing you. Once again I emphasize the point - Pithrus appear only on the day of srardham
and if failed , then they visit on all subsequent days till it is performed. This is just like your impatience to
have the food in my example.
Q19. Excuse me sir,-we perform Nanthi (Nothing but a variation of sraadha in my thinking )
on a convenient date before any auspicious function. It is an untimely calling. How do you
justify it if timely meals just like a sick patient is to be given to the pithru. Am I
embarrassing you too much?
A19. Not at all sir, From your way of putting the questions I understand very well your intentions of
clarifications. I am expecting more and more questions. Incidentally are you not having any questions on
Tharpan? I will answer your question now.
The Abvyooham known as nandhi srardham is known for "KaaraNa nimitham" i.e. for a specific benefit. It
is to seek their blessings for the special occasion. It is just like any other festivity that we take special
meals than the regular and unusual. There is no over-feeding amounts on the "kaaraNa nimitham" since
this is for a specific special purpose.
Since you have asked I will add a little more on nanthi sasthra which may give some more informations
to you about it.
There are some stipulations one has to follow for every ritual. These are classified under Dharma sasthra;
with the help of a learned person, one can invite the departed souls only on pre-laid conditions per sastra
for some reasonable functions as Nandhi srardha only. Other pithru days are not counted as a
disturbance as they do expect these on given days. The same rule applies to sraadha conducted in
Punnia kshethras like Rrameswaram, Prayag, Kasi, Gaya etc.
When you do the Nandhi srardham, it is said to be directed to all the 14 Lokams so as to get the
blessings from all, whoever, wherever they might reside are linked to us and surely there is no question
arises of our disturb/botheration to any soul.
Q20. Respected Sir, surely I have questions on Tharpanam but they are few in number since
you have clearly stated already it is for the blessings and not feeding.
I have a few more questions on sraadha. I will put the next one - Why the pinda is offered to
crow. Can it be offered to cow if crow do not turn up?
A20. Niyathi is to offer pinda to crow and before the bhoktha get up after meals, crows should be start
eating pinda.
Crow is said to be a carrier/messenger for the pithrus. When a srardha/tharppana mantra is recited at
any location and if a crow flies across even a furlong away, then the message is carried/uplifted to the
pithrulogam, it is believed. Yes, the phonetic wave vibrations are taken from one station is just uplifted
with its wings. (Even the researchers agree, crow has a special power even to uplift the ether waves and
some sort of unknown signals lengths.
When an Earth quake is about to take place, researchers say, crow is the first creature to be watched as
it feels the shock even before it strikes!!). It is the most reserved and alert bird.
I have heard that in certain places Crow do not turn up. In such places we can adopt local conditions.
Are we not changing many things suit to local conditions?
One needs to be practical to give merit to the ethics. The Sasthra says to do it; when the availability of
such and such things are rare, then one need to abide by the sastra but leave the matter to almighty! Be
practical to the minimum extent. required.
As a matter of fact, most of our rituals are surely based on local conditions and the practices we follow
are that most suited to the place we dwell in. Even the Almanac known as Panchang we use in the
south , it is quite different one from the one used in the North or Eastern India. Why so? Surely,
Rithu/ayana etc are different from one other and it is purely based on the climatic & topographical
conditions of each place.
Now sir, I can give an interesting piece of information after giving the Vayasam - pindam to the crow:
If it eats the rice from the ball from east side, it is said to be a good omen, that the coming generations
too will benefit from the pithru's blessings.
If from the west side Aiswarya
And if from north side of the ball if it eats then pithru's are not fully contented happy over the ritual.
If it takes from the south side, then some sort of trouble is impending.
What if four crows at a time eats from all directions? Surely our present life continue, that much one can
be sure of!
But I think in many areas crow taking the pinda rice immediately is considered as pithru satisfaction of
the sraadha performance.
I have heard in certain houses even crow will be impatiently waiting for the second Kartha keep the
pinda for its eating.
I hope this answering though gone lengthy has input a lot more information . What do you think?
Now, let us think on the rationale way. Crow is an environmental cleansing agent. It takes
away every bit of dirt that if left that would contaminate the surroundings. Whether rat or
any other dead animal, the crow will eat it and cleanse the place neatly!. But the fact is, if
any other creature dies, crow will eat it; and if a crow dies - oh, it is to bio-degrade itself
with the soil !! Yes, no other creature will touch the dead crow.
Q21. Sir, Though lengthy the answering was very very nformative. Thank you. Sir, my next
question- Now a days practically it is impossible to remain till aparanna with out even taking
coffee or milk for elderly and sick people. This applies to Bhoktha too. What is your opinion
on it?
A21. Sir, In the present world surely your query is justified for elders. If your ill health do not permit to
remain with out taking any thing till sraadha completed take some thing . At least while performing
sraadha- two hours time do not take any thing. If a kartha or bhoktha is having high Blood sugar, then
insulin and morning food after it are important. Try to conduct sraadha earlier. These are all my personal
opinions. What I feel is your sinceority to conduct sraadha is most important.
Q 22. Can you elaborate rules regarding the Bhoktha sir?
A 22. Surely I will. For the sanctity of the bhoktha these are all the must.
1. He should be fairly healthy, married and a family man and with no physical handicappedness.
2. He should refrain from family life on the previous day.
3. He should have fasted the previous day.
4. He should be clean, neatly dressed and should have taken oil bath on the day.
5. He should partake only in one sraadha on a day. This is very important.
6. On the sraardha day too other than the food taken no meals should be taken in the night.
7. If not done the Veda Adyayanam fully, at least he must a be a person doing his daily Gayatri Japa.
And above all,
8. He should not be from the same Gothra as that of Kartha.
I think you agree if I state such a bhoktha has to be fully compensated with Dakshina and other forms .
Bhoktha can partake maximum seven sraadhas in a month. The entire month bhoktha and his family has
to survive on the dakshina.
Q23. Sir,I fully agree with you.. I have three more questions in my mind before I put my
queries on Tharpan.
First one is whether thithi or nakshathra of death is to be reckoned? In Kerala Nairs follow
Nakshathra. Nampoothiries too if I recollect. In Calcutta star is found followed according to
one sraadha book in Bengali I have read.
A23. Surely a good question you have asked me .Now I will give the clarification.
In general the Nakshatra for birth and thithi for death is taken. However, for the Lords, the thithi is given
importance by many and the nakshatra is given importance by others. (Few for the festivity consider
Pusyha/Rohini).
In Srivaishnava, even a fraction of seconds of Sapthami is not to be there for Sri Krishna Jayanthi, even if
Rohini slips out!
The reason for this is as we live on this earth it is to be taken according to this planets rotational
movements that falls in the Nakshatra. And for the Pithru’s it the Thithi is important because, as the
Pithru locational calander is based on fifteen days Sukla/Krishna paksha is a day for them.
As far the Lords, it is the one and same applicable as they too were born and departed souls in this
earth! These are my assumptions and there is no syllable I can quote. May be I have not come across
any such notations on this. I admit the fact, I am not able to say why srardha should not be conducted
as per star.
Q24. Sir my next question is about theertha sraadha. and specifically sraadha performed at
Rameswaram, Prayag, Banaras and Gaya. I want an elaborative reply from you regarding
their importance and why they are important.
A24. First I will answer Why this Gaya sraadha is made important.
A srardha performed near any of the Sacred river-side known as Jeeva Nadhi is always has multiple
benefits. And when it comes to Gaya, Kasi or Sethu known as Rameswaram, it has more value, as these
places are mentioned as Punya-Kshetra, where the Lord Himself has set His foot.
More so, in Gaya the Lord’s feet print (only in single) known, as Vishnu Padam is located, thus signifying
the offering the Pindam directly to the Vishnu Padam.
Thus Gaya srardham gets highest merits to add punya-bhalam to the coming generations in a flow.
As stated earlier, being the important place where Sri Mahavishnu’s footprint known as Vishnu Padam is
located, it was widely given much more importance in Srardha Niyama. Thus expecting the entire
Sanadhana Dharma followers will be visiting once in their lifetime, the settlement of Brahmin
communities was imminent. To help it’s followers, each Mutt or Sect has established it’s branches to
facilitate the visitors of respective sect to do the ordained ritual; they made every available source to
render its services to the needy.
Here in Gaya, irrespective of your faith and membership of one’s sect, you can perform the srardha from
any other mutt also, as the aim and intention is the same. Also, the mantra vidhi is all the same for every
one!
Another important thing-Every body who simply desire to go are not able to go to these places. Some
obstructions in some way come in their way. Above all some destiny take us there…. And only the gifted
one does perform the Srardha here, let what come the cost.
The Gaya Srardha has no equations. It is the specialty of Vishnu Padam location, which counts much
more benefits; one needs to do, perform the Theertha Srardha once in their lifetime.
Above all, it is the gifted souls that reach their to perform the srardha – either in the belief of weeding off
their sins, or to gain to punyabhalam; in most cases, the visitors sincerely and honestly perform it there,
to relieve the souls and send them to their ultimate destinations, out of pure love, affection and care for
the departed persons.
In your one earlier query I had clarified already the following points which I may add here
too for the benefit of visitors:
1. Gaya sraadha is equivalent to performing 60 annual sraadhas.
2. After Gaya sraadha, conducting sraadha should not be discontinued. Continuing sraadha will surely
feed Jnatha Anjatha pithrus if our pithrus have gone to their destinations. It adds to punniabalam.
There are even persons perform sraadha for Jnatha anjatha pithrus too for punniam. I hope this reply is
elaborate as you desired.
Q25. Sir, My last question is about the queries itself I have put forth so far. I think I have
put forth queries which needed answer in mine as well as from many peoples mind.
A25. Yes sir, Really I too feel so. Your queries are thought provoking. I too feel this Q&A will be
benefiting to the visitors to my site .Thank you very much for patronizing my site. Now let us proceed
with your other questions on TharppaNa niyama.
QUESTION & ANSWER ON THARPANA.
Q1. Sir, You have already clarified many times Tharpan is not pithru feeding. If so why we
are conducting tharpan?
A1. According to Pithrumedha sagaram, any srardha with bhojanam is only the feeding. And the tharppaNam is
entirely for the benefit of more gains through blessings .So you get blessings of the pithrus by tharpan Irrespective
of the place where pithru stay.
The tharpan offerings til (black seasame known as gingily) and Jal (water) reach them. Only the mantra roopa
"hitham, swathaa nama: tharppayami" and no where it is mentioned whether-where they live or stay put . I hope this
simple answer is sufficient.
Q2 Sir, If one’s mother leave to heavenly abode keeping father alive why do Tharpan is not performed till
father's death? Do not the soul of mother has to bless us, if the father's death occur late?.
A2. Dear Mr Gopala Krishnan, Here my answer is a little elaborate. Then only why tharpan for mother is not
performed can be clarified to you.
The Dharma Sastra bestows many rights only to a son. Are not the daughters equal? Once a woman marries, she
belong to another gothra. She is to gain all the benefits from the home she enters as an housewife. She becomes the
head of the family. This is the prevailing status in Hindu dharma for living souls.
For the departed souls, the annual srardham is the only feeding and hence we do not leave them hungry. But for the
male counterpart, the Tharpana niyama is in mantra roopa and hence it is not amounting to feeding.
As a rule, male vamsavali is only counted as genetical factors and no female vamsavali is known to be taken. It is
for the Kula vrudhi , vamsa vrudhi and saubhagya one performs the ordained rituals. (VidhivihitreNa tharppana:,
kulavruthena argyam, bhalavrudthena karmavyaapi, Guna vruthena saukyobava:).
Here, the thrappanam only is given to the males, just on the male vargathavya;
Since srardha feed is done individually, the tharppana only begin after the departure of the male counter part and till
then no tharpanam for female.
Here again, they never starve because of not doing tharpanam since tharpan is for blessing. Here I add this too is
sookshma. I hope my quotings fully satisfy your query.
Q3. Sir, I have read tharpan has to be started after sapindi for departed male soul. Now it
is the practice to perform sapindi on 12th day. Then why tharpan is not started from the
first month?
A3. What you have read is correct Mr. Gopala Krishnan.SapindikarNm is to be is to be performed only on the 12th
month and then aabdeekam. No, not on the 12th day. Does it suprise you? Truly, this is the fact. How and where did
we err? According to all the Srardha niyama books and scripts, the oldest practice is to perform the Kriya, then
Oonam, thithi maasyam every month and then Sabindeekaranam in 12th month,So, normally only after the
aabdeekam the Tharpanam was performed, in those days after one year.
This is the reason given by some vadyars to start the tarpanam only after one year . But pithrumethasagaram insists
to perform the tharpanam immediately from the first amavasya after sabindeekaranam! So which one to follow?
In those days, they never would have thought that the sabindeekarnam too would be advanced to the 12th day
instead of 12th month. There is no known authority for advancing sapindi to 12th day. This topic is more related to
Tharpan and I am happy you put it in the correct context.
Q4. Sir, can one perform tharpan after some other family member leaves the home for outstation ?
A4. One should never perform the Tharpan immediately after some other family member leaves the home for
outstation. Likewise, one should not prostrate a person while leaving for out of station from the home. These are all
sooshma. Only when the dead body is taken out, then persons younger to the departed to prostrate while taking the
body for cremations.
Q5. Can you intimate me the Source References for your answer that tharpan is for blessings?
A5. Surely. For answering your query Source References are availed from:
1.Sudheevilochanam – Pithrumethasarvyaagyaanam by Vaidhika Sarvapoumar
2.Vaidhyanaatheeyam – Sraarrdha Niyamam – By Sri Vaidhyanathar
3.Pithrumethasaaram by Thozhappar
4. Srivaishnava Sadhachara Nirnaya, 2nd Edition, Authored by present Ahobila Mutt jeer during His poorvashram.
I hope those who want to know more, can refer to them.
Q6. Sir, am I correct to say Tharpana is related to the parental lineage and to be started only after fathers
death.
A6 Very correct. This answer is very much explained when I explained lineage.
Q7. Sir,that question was put to clarify answer important doubt. If Tharpana is related to the parental
lineage why then we call for mothers side her father grandfather, and great Grand father. Not only that
-mothers mother, grand mother too for upasthanam and tharpanam? You have to give an elaborate answer.
A7. I am really happy with your deep thinking on reading my answer. I am furnishing below the reply for question.
In every family, the maternal uncle will be performing tharpanam to your Mathru Vargam. Likewise, everyone’s
mother side issues will be doing it for their maternal parents too. The niyama for starting the Tharsha Srardha
(Tharpanam) is only male lineage and not female side.
However, the Tharpanam is for both side… mathru/pithru and also for Garunya pithru’s during Mahalaya. There is
no doubt about this vargathavvya. The additional performance to the mathru vargam is to gain the pithru
blessings in any form and also if for any reason, the mathru vargam failed to get their dues, it is the other
side to offer and protect their interest. In case none else there surviving to pass the tharpana benefits from mother
side, just for the sake, no issues, or all passed away or none performing, then your punyabhalam incrases by adding
their vargam too.
Q8. Sir, I am well clarified now. Thank you for giving such a fit answer. In tharpana we call our pithrus
including jnatha anjatha pithrus too and address and say thrupyatha thrupyatha and thrupyatha. What do
the mantra really mean?
A8. Mantra Thrupyatha -means may the soul get satisfied with this offering oblation.
Q 9. Sir, if a person could not start sraadha or tharpana from beginning and he desires to perform them at a
later date. Do the pithrus become happy? This QUESTION sometimes can be in many peoples mind.
A 9. When once a thought like that come he become more pure and get punnia balam even before performing. As
you said there can be many in Airforce, military etc who due to their working conditions could not start them in
time. There may be many others who think of performing all these things after retirements. There is a shooshma
making you to think like that. No pithru will curse for not starting sofar but only bless for starting now. Thank you
for putting such a question.
Q 10. Sir, this is the last question coming to my mind at present. At what time we have to perform tharpan?
A10. Dear Mr Gopala Krishnan, please do not laugh at my answer much. Many have become local Aapasthamaba
and Bodhayana. We. Have shifted the day of sapindi from the end of 12th month to 12th day . We have shifted
Sraadha tharpan to sraadha day. We have transferred the duty to of performing sraadha to Madhya Kailas in
Chennai. We have gone to tape mantra for tharpan, Ok, Ok.
Answer to your question is, it has to be performed in the end of forenoon, preferably in the river side just like your
Upakarma . But I am of the opinion considering the convenience of ourselves and your Vaadyaar/ sasthrikal after 8
AM is preferred. But surely not before sun-rise.
In addition to the above, it would not be out of place to mention some some more interesting facts on the
subject. I give below the Regular Tharpanams one has to perform. Apart from the listed days here under, one
has to perform the TharppaNam on the Eclipse days and also on the next day to Mathru/Pithru Srardha days:
To come to the reality and practicability, one has to read the entire Srardha Niyama and the reasoning for it.
According to the Vaidhyanatheeyam and Srivaishnava Deepika, a dutiful Brahmin has to perform 96 tharppanams in
a year, as stipulated in the Vedic scripts. Listed below are the days on which a Brahmin has to perform his duty in
Thila tharpaNa roopam. Out of these, the Mahalaya Tharpanam can be done with Hiranyam or with BrahmmaNa
bhojanam also; if not on all the sixteen day, any one day that one considers himself as most important – viz.
Mahabharani, Madhyashtami or on his mathru/ pithru srardha thithi days that falls during Mahalayam.
Amavasya - 12
Masapirappu - 12
Pournami - 12
Kruthayugathi - 1
Threthayugathi - 1
Dwaparayugathi - 1
Kaliyugathi - 1
Vaithruthi Yogas - 14
Vyatheepatha Yoga -14
Mahalayathi -16
Ashtaka - 4
Anvashtaka - 4
Thisroshtaka -4
If one cannot afford to perform the Tharsha Srardham known as Thila tharppaNam on all the above days, one should
stick to minimum possible on Amavasya, Mesha Sangramanam, DakshinayaNa punyakaalam, Thula Vishu
Punyakalam, UtharayaNa punyakalam, visible Surya/Chandra Grahan days and also on the next days to
Mathru/Pithru srardha.
I do hope all the answers given to you can benefit all the visitors to my web site too while published. Thank you for
your patronage of putting so many queries and giving me an opportunity to answer such weighted queries from elder
peoples like you. Pl visit my web site whenever possible.
Please read FAQ pages to get clarifications on Gaya Srardham & its benefits.
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Srivaishnavam Parambaryam, Traditions & The Culture that stands Class apart from
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Essence of Srivaishnavam Practices - Srivaishnavam Practises Q & A.
(1)
Can Akka -Athimbar or Anna- Manni perform Kanya Dhanam 1] If parents are
alive 2] If parents are not alive Thanks
Answer: Yes, anyone elder to the to-be-married person can perform the Kanya
Dhanam. Whether or not the parents are alive, any other relatives too can take up the
job. Even if the parents are able and fit, the marriage of their daughter can be
solomnized by some other relatives or even friends, if the elderly couple desire so.
There is no restriction on this.
( 577 visitors thought it is useful, 76 visitors thought of no use. What do you feel?
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(2)
Pranam. As per my husbands horoscope , since there is some Pithru Thosham ,
an Astrologer told us to do the "Mahalaya Amavasai Tharpanam like Sradtham
(Ceremony) and to offer food to some Brahmins. Can we do the Sradtham
(ceremony) on Mahalaya Amavasai ? Please guide us. Andal.T
Answer: Yes, your astrologer is right in suggesting to perform the Mahalaya
Srardham, that can be performed either in Thila tharppaNa roopam or Hiranya
Srardham. However, Hiranya Srardham can be performed only after performing the
Mahalaya tharppanam. Mahalaya Amavasya Thrappanam is like a regular one except
that we add the Garunya Pithrus in the TharppaNam. So one should perform the
Mahalaya Srardham on any other day in addition to Amavasya; this can be performed

on Madhyashtami or Mahabharani; or on a day in which pithrus thithi falls during the
Mahalaya Paksham.
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(3)
Please do let us know the Cooking that has to adopted during Mahalaya Paksha.
What are the other code of conduct during this period covering food, Bathing
and anushtanam. thanking you in advance

Answer: During the entire period of fifteen days, it is recommended to avoid usage of restricted
vegetable items and use only recommended ones. Raw Banana, Ladies Finger, Sour Gourd, Snake
Gourd etc. are few of the recommended ones. (It is just like a Srardha cookings). Bengal gram (Thuvar
Dal or Thuvaram Paruppu) is totally to be avoided. Instead green gram is to be used. (Payatham
paruppu).
Sleeping in cusshion beds, usage of pillows, using luxury items, scents etc. are to be stopped. Also, to
avoid sex during these days. Hair cut and oil bath too to be avoided. Those who perform the Pithru
Tharppanam can perform the pithru tharppanam on all days; if not possible, at least one day during
these time, or on ones pithrus thithis, they should perfom the Tharpanam. On the Pithru paksha
amavasya, in addition to regular Tharpanam to Mathru/Pithru vargam, oblations to be offered to
Garunya Pithrus too. Please read details about this in reply to Gaya Srardham in this same page.
It is widely believed that during Malayapaksha days the Maharishis, the other Jeevathmas, the Devas
& Devaganas, the pithrus along with their other departed relatives souls, all come to the earth in
invisible form known as Sookshama Deha and assemble along the sacred river beds, the sea shores viz.
in Gaya, Rameswaram, and other rivers banks like Ganga, Bhavani, Kaveri, Narmada, Krishna,
Godavari, Thriveni sangamam and many other riverbeds. These places are known as Punya Nadhis or
Sacred Rivers and has the power and curative effects for many of our sins and ills. So by performing
the Tharpana on these days, one gets the blessings from all the roopas of the Vasur, Rudhras, Adithya,
and Pithrudevas, and other Deva Ganas. So offering a Tharpanam during this time is given multiple
benefits and this is for all Hindus, irrespective of their caste, creed, sect or sub-sect. etc.
Click Here )

(4)
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SRIVAISHNAVAM AND
SRIVAISHNAVISM
Answer: There is not much difference and mostly it can be said that its one and the same. The "ism" is
added to many other sects such as Saivism, Pluralism, communism etc. Persons who worship Sri Maha
Vishnu (yes, you can say Vishnuism too) and follow Sri Ramanujas teachings are known as
Srivaishnavites or Srivaishnavas. Interestingly if youre from Ahmedabad, Gujarat you might have
heard about the very popular song "Vaishnava Janato", sung by great Saint Sri Narsingh Mehta.
Click Here )

(5)
I would like to know about the significance of "Satari", as we would like to
highlight the same in our temple.
Answer: Before we get into details on this specific Sadari, one should know the entire rationale of
visiting to any temple. Normally, according to Vedic Agama Sasthra, a temple is constructed at a
strategic location where the North-South magnetic currents are passing through in high density. On
finding a location, they do the silanyarasm with a copper plate imbibed with some specific scripts and
mantras that relate to the temple. Then they energize the the copper plate with certain counts of Japa
that matters to the Main Deity of the Temple. After this they perform some sort of Homam and poojas
to the Copper plate before installing it beneath the Main Idol of the temple. This copper is said to
receive the magnetic value from the thrust of the earths rotation via the north-south poles magnetic
beams. Then they install the main Idol as per the Agama sashtra. The size of the moolavar sannidhi,
gauge, size and thickness of the copper plate, the height below the Idol where it is to be placed are all
decided upon the Main Idols height and the availability of current at the location of the Temple. Once
started, the Temple gets its holy energy which is added by regular chanting and reciting of Archanas
and Sookthams at frequent intervals. Thus the surrounding becomes more energized with positive
vibrations.
Now coming to the point, by taking clock-wise rounds of Pradakshanam, one receives the beamed
energy from the Main Sannidhi, known Moolavar Sannidhi, with specific counts of rounds. By doing
so, the body receives the energy lost in a days work. Then the vessel containing the Holy water, which
is of mixed with Tulsi, Cardamom, Clove, benzoine etc. is placed at a place where more receptive of
the magnetic values are absorbed by the copper vessels. The holy water thus gets the medicinal plus
magnetic values. Combined with the Praddakshanam, this water consumption to the limit of three
spoons boosts the energy level. It should be in a limited quantity to get the value and if taken more than
the specified quantity then it is counter productive. On getting the Holy water, the Sadari known as the
Holy Feet of the Lord is placed on the head of the devotee. The Archaka should stand from a specific
point and offer this. By getting the Sadari, the energy is leveled; while taking rounds, if the body gets
excessive energy then it is revibrated back to the sannidhi and if in less then it is absorbed to the needed
level from the Sannidhi. Added to this, the devotees too feel much of getting the divine blessings of the
Lord through the Sadari. (Sadari - The HOLY feets, Chappel, sandal etc). You can get more details
from this link on temple visits. Oh, you have not specified about your temple - which one?
Click Here )

(6)
Could you tell me about the pooja things and timings for krishan jayanthy?
Answer: It is already listed in the website, please follow this link.

Click Here )

(7)
Namaskaram. Sir, My father has only 02 daughters (me and my younger sister)
and no sons. My sister has a son. I am aware that mappilai cannot perform
sharddam as they are from different family. My dad has 01 younger brother and
he has a son. I want to assure them of something while they are alive so that they
rest in peace in old age. Who is supposed to do the final rights for both of my
parents ? I want to know according to vadakali Iyengar rights. I want to try to
help them as I am aware of the consequences of not doing shraddam. Apart from
self Gaya shartham, what else need to be done for final rights and yearly
schedule ? As somebody else will do, I cant expect them to do every year so what
is the least number of years that we need to follow. I think this problem is there
now days for every one who has only daughters and no sons. your answer will be
highly helpful for all of us . Thank you.
Answer: Njaathi known as the first cousins have full rights to perform the rituals.
However, if your parents desire, grand son too can perform (if Upanayanam has not
been performed, then through the procedure known as Kaippil - taking the dharba
from the grand-son - some one on his behalf can perform the rites as if having taken a
power of attorney). Your parents have the full rights to nominate some one to do the
kaingaryam. If property is left by the grand parents to the grand son, then the grand
son needs to perform the annual sraardham for life time! If no property is offered, then
they can just perform hiraNya or aama srardham. If the husband leaves first, then the
wife can perform the rites by offering Kaippil. And if wife leaves first, husband can
do the kaingaryam, and continue the srardham to his wife for his life time; then the
question of offering kaippil does not arise. This is common to all Srivaishnavas.
Click Here )

(8)
I have a daughter who will be 3 yrs next month. since im coming to chennai
during navaratri festival, i want to do vidya arambham for my daughter on
vijayadashmi day in a temple in chettipunyam hayagriva temple. What are the
necessary things to be taken for this ceremony. Please guide me. Moreover, is
there any mantra or sloka to be done by me for the goodness of my child.
Answer: Though the temples offer the needed items in one bunch at a nominal cost, it
is recommended to take with you Turmeric Roots, Betal Leaves, Coconuts, fruits and
flowers for performing Archana for Sri Hayagriva. If you can afford, offering a
Dhoti/angavastram to the Guru is suggested. Guru Dakshina and presentations are
upto ones capacity and it is left to individuals.
Click Here )

(9)
Thanks for your reply. It is really very informative. In continuation of the
question 1, I was told that usage of Ghee will give whealth, usage of grounnet oil
will lead to debts, usage of cocunut oil will give knowledge, usage of villakuennai
will give moksham etc, is all these true. For question 4: To get rid of navagraha
dosha, anjenya worship is widely accepted. If we cannot worship Anjenya
seperately then what is the alternate. What is the significane of vennai kappu to
anjenya, vadamalai etc. Shall we recite hanuman chalisya?
Answer: Though, according to the Srivaishnava sampradaya, usage of Gingili
oil is the prime one, using other oils for different needs are not prohibited. Yet,
the mixture of other oils give some benefits but the limitedness is certain.
Different oils for different dieties are not the one for Srivaishnavas!
As for Sri Hunaman aka Anjaneyar, one can offer Tulsi, Betal Leaves, fruits,
Lime etc. as garland on occassions. However, the Vadai Malai garland is a
very interesting story behind the theme. According to the Ramayana on his
return from Srilanka, following Lord Sri Ramas victory over Ravana and the
subsequent coronation of Lord Rama and Sita in Ayodhya, all the guests
attending the coronation received gifts before their departure. But when it
came to Sri Anjaneya, Lord Sri Rama said that Sri Anjaneyar would remain
with him always. Overjoyed, Sita Devi made a Vadai Maalai for Sri Anjaneyar
and adorned it on him so that he would eat it and be happy. Since then, the
practice of adorning Sri Anjaneyar with the Vadai Maalai came into existence.
Devotees adorn the Vadai Maalai to please Sri Anjaneya and receive his
blessings for a happy and peaceful life. The Vennai kappu too is a kind of
appeasement to Hanuman. While he carried the Parvat hill to get the
Siranjeevi herb, some of the bacterias and mud fell on his hairy body. To get
rid of these itch and to smoothen his body, the butter was applied on his body
and Anjaneya was allowed to take bath after the application which gave him
immediate relief from the lices, bacteria etc. This too now exists as an
appeasement to the Hanuman known as Siriya Thiruvadi.
Click Here )

(10)
Radhekrishna! This website is very useful. I am an ardent devotee of Lord Sri
Guruvayurappa and recite narayaneeyam, Sundara Gaandam, Lalitha
Sahasranamam and other slokas as advised by my parents and elders. I have a
question about Rahukaalam/Yema Kandam. Why is it said that we shouldnt
start things/travel etc during these hours? What is the significance of observing
these? Also do the same timings followed in India are applicable throughout the
world? In US, we have different time zones etc. and sunrise is earlier than 6 am
or later around 8:30 am during winter and sunset is after 9 pm in summer and
around 3 pm in winter. Please clarify. Thank you very much. Srividhya Krishna
Answer: Rahu Kaalam and Yama Gandam are calculated from the time of sun rise. Based on the sun
rise timings, it differs place to place. for example, if the sun rise is 6.00 am in Chennai on a Monday,
then the Rahu kalam starting timing is 7.30 am; the same would change to Mumbai where there is
about 20 to 40 minutes difference during seasons. If the sun rise is at 7.30 then the Rahu kaalam should
be from from 9.00 am! One has to take the local timings for calculating the Rahu kalam and Yama
Gandam, that is to be calculated from the sun rise timings and adjusted accordingly.
When the Earths rotation comes about a specific angle to the Solar path, the radiations and ultra violet
rays are excessively passed on to the Earth. These specific timings are bracketed as Rahu Kalam and
Yama Gandam; doing any auspicious functions or starting long journey during these timings are likely
to blind ones brain neurons. This might cause harm to oneself so it was better advised to avoid the
Rahukalam & Yamagandam. During the timing of Gulikan, it is said that the rays passed on to earth is
very conducive and has cooling stimulations in the brain neuron chips. Thus Gulikan timing is
recommended to start any auspicious function. However, for regular jobs and routines this does not
apply!!
Though the Vedic reliance and practices were that of Indian Origin and the same was observed since it
came into existence, one cannot predict the values it offers or gaurantee for its benefits or loss at other
locations of the universe! However, I recommend persons to follow the local standard timings to
convert these to their local stations.

(11)
1) Is ghee vilaku is good or nellaenai villaku is good. In Kerla I beleive
Thengaennai villaku is used. What is the significance of these usage of oils? 2)
My freind told me that there are specific flowers we should offer to god on
specific days to get rid of navagraha doshas. For example offering lotus on friday
is very auspicious. Is there any truth behind it or can i offer flowers on daily
basis. If there are list of special flowers to be offered on daily basis can you please
let me know? 3) I got panchasamskaram with HH ahobila mutt seer. I was told
that i should not do saraswathi pooja, then can i do hayagreeva pooja? 4) I was
told vaishnavate do not worship anjenya is it true?, they should not go to anjenya
temple and they should not consume the prasadam given there. why is it so, when
i asked this to one learned scholar he told me that anjenya is non other than lord
siva is this the reason for not worshipping. Then how to worship when we go to
ramar temples?
Answer:
1. Gingili oil (Seasame oil) known as NalleNNai is good for lighting lamp at home as well as at all
temples. It is also good for health and Srivaishnavite should use the Seasame oil than any other oil. It is
said, the carbon emanated from this Gingili oil releases the negative forces from the surroundings
where the lamp is lit with this oil, thus cleansing the surroundings. The practice of using food items,
clothing and all came from the necessity for each region; this was based mainly on the climatic,
topographical conditions and the needs of local according to the availability of products. for isntance,
people from Eastern India uses cummin seeds oil (Kadugu eNNai) which protects them from winter
cold; likewise, in Kerala the cultivation of Coconut is high, the availability is a plenty hence they use
it.
2. Though for Srivaishnavites Srimann NarayaNa is the prime and only deity to worship, all the scented
flowers can be used for Him along with Tulsi - which is a must and most important as Sri Mahavishnu
is known as Tulasi Priya! Yes, there are many flowers that are used for each Navagraha deity.
3. Yes, one can worship Lord Sri Lakshmi Hayagriva for gaining knowledge, wisdom and good
education.
4. Sri Anjaneya known as Hanuman is part & parcel of Sri Maha Vishnjus paraphernalia (Srivaishnava
Mudra) known as Shanku (conch), Chakra (The divine Wheel), Namam (Thiruman), Garuda (The
Carrier of Sri Vishnu) and Hanuman. The above five emblems are part of Srivaishnava culture and one
can prominently see these in all Temples and even in the Magazines published by many Vaishnava sect
publications. However, worshiping Sri Hanuman separately is not recommended. Either they can do the
same along with Sri rAma & Seetha. It is certainly not against Srivaishnava culture to worship
Hanuman. He is known as Siriya Thiruvadi and Garuda is known as periya Thiruvadi. Why, even Lord
Sri Yoga Nrusimha has passed on the Shanka & Chakra to Hanuman to be kept while Sri Nrusimha
went on to Yoga stage. This can be ascertained from the history of Srivaishnava Divyadesam at
Sholinghar near Arakkonam, which is known as Kadikai aka Kadikachalam, where a separate Sannidhi
is established in the small hill near the main hill of Sri Narasimha swamy temple at Sholinghar. Even,
the Bhagavad-Gita was pronounced for the indirect hearing for Hanuman. Hanuman was sitting on the
flag pole of the Chariot driven by Parthasarathy - Sri Krishna while delivering the Gita Upadesam to
Arjun. This one can ascertain from many factors emerging from Sri Bhagavad-Gita. If it was that of
Shiva amsam then they should portrait Hanuman with Vibhoothi or the holy ash the Smarthas use.
Wherein, youll see everywhere in all temples Hanuman with white paste Namam and Srichoornam.
Only while doing neivedhyar known as prasadam offerings, they should offer it firstly to the Main deity
and then to other daities and lastly to Hanuman.
Click Here )

(12)
Does grahana tharpanam tomorrow precede Gayathri japam or follow it?
Answer: Grahana TharpaNam is to be performed on the 16th night/17th Aug. early
morning at 2.30 am Indian Standard Time. Please convert this timing according to
your local timings. Gayathri Japam is done on the 17th August 2008 morning, after
sun rise, after attending to your regular anushtanams.

Click Here )

(13)
Should we perform tharpanam for mothers side generation while the mother is
alive and father has passed.
Answer:
Yes, one should perform the TharppaNam to mathru vargam too even when mother is
alive. Only, when mothers father (mathamahan) is alive, then there is no

TharppaNam for mathru vargam. Otherwise, one has to include mothers paternal
side in the routine tharppaNam.

(14)
Unfortunately, my father in law has not been performing yearly devasam for his
parents for quite a few years, since he does not believe in it. We belong to
Mudaliyar caste, kindly let me know what is the ill effect of the same and how to
do the pariharam by me and my husband. I strongly believe in pithru
asirvadham and would do anything to remove the ill effects. Kindly clarify our
doubt and bless us.
If elders were failing in their ritualistic duties, it surely affects the younger
generations. If you know the Thithi, you can surely arrange to offer some Raw rice
and Banana to any poor deserving family on that day. If thithi is not known, then the
best alternative is perform it on the Amavasya day of Karthikai Tamil month. For
pithru dosha nivarthi, one can also perform Anna dhanam at the pithru Kshetram
known as Sholinghar near Arakkonam. This removes the ill effects and negative
forces just by offering a Brahmin feeding during the Pithru Paksha. (MahaLaya

paksham). Since you have the faith and belief, that in itself should get rid of the curses
by and large, and if you do perform any of the above pariharam, surely there will be
blessings from the departed souls.
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(15)
Dear Sir, My fathers death aniiversary is in Oct2008 first week. We want to
Shraadh in Gaya after doing the Ist anniversary rituals in Chennai. Is it
necessaey to do 2 in Kasi and 2 in Gaya. This is the advise that has been given to
me. I am little confused.What our vedas and sasthras say about this? I will
appreciate a quick response. Thank you for your time. Sridharan Rajagopalan,
Banff, Canada.
Once in our life time, it is necessary to perform one theertha srardham known as Gaya
srardham. Though, doing at Gaya only suffice , performing srardha at Kashi or other
theertha kshetra is not against the sastras. This is just to add the Punyabhalam by
performing at other punya kshetra too. In the entrie Ganges belt, there are many such
spots where one can perform the Srardha as many places as one wants to perform.
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(16)
Swami Namaskarams. Could you please give me a pointer where I can get a
book related to panchasamskara matras and its procedures.
Answer:
Pancha Smskaaram = The five daily routines of a Srivaishnava: (1) The Mudra of
Conch & Wheel (Shanka Chakram) to be sealed by the Acharya in a devotees
shoulders; (2) Applying of Oordhva Pundareekam ( 12 Nama with Sreechoornam to
be applied in the body; (2) Dasya Namam as named by the Acharya; (4) Taking the
Guru Mantra as taught by the Acharrya and (5) learning and getting the needed
qualifications from the Acharya to perform the Daily Thiruvaradhanam.
Out of the pancha samskarams, the Samasrayanam (and Bharanyasam) can only be
done by a Jeer or Sects Guru. While doing so, they guide you through the proceedures
and give you a detailed routine prayer part alongwith Gurus Thanian. Once done, the
rest above comes within this Samskaras.
However, the entire Srivaishnavam practices and the rituals to be followed is listed in
a costliest book named "Srivaishnava Sadhaachaara NirNaya, authored by the present
Ahobila Mutt Jeer. This book lists the entire anushtana procedures together with many
useful tips and guides. It is plublished in Tamil/Devanagari scripts. Copies can be had
from Sri Nrusimha Priya office, No.30, Venkatesa Agraharam, Mylapore, Chennai
600 004 OR at Sri Ahobila Math, 8, Arathi Nagar, Selayur Post, Chennai 600 056.
The price is Rs.500/- per copy.
Click Here )

(17)
HI, I would like to know about chandra and Surya grahanam? What we should
do on those days and why such practices are needed? Please tell me the Science
behind the practices also. Thanks
During time of Eclipse, the ultra violet radiations are spread all over and
contaminating the surroundings. To avoid any sort of slow poisoning or illness, it is
advisable to avoid eating or keeping the food items open during that time. In the
Srivaishnavites homes, they used to fully cover the food grains and water with
Dharbam known as Dharbai the holy grass used by Brahmins. To avoid any eye sight
problem and skin related deseases, it is advisable not to roam around in open during
the eclipse. Especially the pregnant women should keep themselves inside their home
to avoid any mal-functionals for the child in the womb. If the ecliptic duration is
longer, then the poisonous radiations are the more high. Hence, it was suggested to
avoid looking at the Sun or Moon during eclipse with naked eye.
 Nothing should be eaten during the Eclipse. The Vedh period is of around 6 to 9
hours prior to start of the Eclipse and one should eat before that.
 After Eclipse is over, do not touch clothes before taking bath. So, before eclipse
begins, put aside clothes/towel etc. to be used after your bath. Take head bath and
then only to attend to other routines.
 Spend your time in prayer, reading & listening scriptures etc.
 After taking bath/shower only, one should touch God or do the normal activities
 If your birth star falls in the Ecliptic path, then do the Shanthi Parihara, recite the
prescribed sloka and then donate some grains - wheat for Surya Grahan and Rice for
Chandra Grahan with some dakshina to any deserving poor Brahmin.
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(18)
How to perform Hiranya Srardham?
Hiranya Srardham is like regular srardham minus homam/havis, but with Changing
Yagnjopaveetham, Suddhi Punyahavachanam, regular Aaradhanam - aka Pooja,
Srardhangam with two BrahmmaNa bhojanam. Some also call this as Sankalpa
Vidhanam.

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(19)
Namaskaram. Sir, We are living in a place where the sun never rises/sets around
the same time in a year or month. In winters it will be very late around 8.30-9.00
AM and 4.30-5 PM and in summers it will be 4.30-6 AM and 7.30-9.30 PM.
Summer time it is okay for my husband to do sandhi without disturbing office
time. But in winter it is very very cold and snowy and difficult to go out in bare
body in that time also he needs to be at work. How to cope up with this ? Also
maintaining thulasi is very difficult at winters inside home. Now what he does is
to sticks to after bath time like 6-7 AM to cope up with going to office. Please give
your comments and is it okay to do without seeing the sun duing winter. Or is
there any other method in performing the same that we are not aware of, If you
could mail us that will be very helpful. I am asking question on his behalf. Thank
you. Regards, Sridevi.
Answer:
Basically the Vedic recitals and Mantra prayogam are meant for the Punya Bhoomi
known as Bharatha Kandam, thats Bharat. They never would have thought that the
Brahmin community would spread all over the world and would be performing the
rituals. According some learned scholars, the recitals would lose its value if it is done
during un-time. Present days compulsion of survival makes one to migrate to any
place where opportunities abound to sustain their livelihood.

Yet, it is essential to perform the Anushtanam as far as possible within the available
time frame than totally discarding it. It is best recommended to adhere to the local
timings and prevailing conditions and continue to do the prayer part as per the local
sun rise timing and not to stick to Indian timings. It is more important to perform the
daily Sandhya Vandanam with Gayatri at before Sun-rise and during sun-set timing,
respectively, according to the local time zone.
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(20)
My husbands Janma Nakshatram is Purattathi, kumbah rasi. avani month. this
year the star birthday falls twice. one on 19th aug and the 2nd one on 15th sep.
which one do we need to take for performing any special homan. and why.
Answer: Normally, if birth nakshatra falls twice in any month,then the later date is to
be taken for celebration. Mostly, the first nakshatra day is not taken for celebrations.
However, if the next month (Masa Pirappu) begin within 8 hours from the sun rise,
only then the earlier nakshatra can be taken. (Eventhough the date of the month can be
30th, 31st or 32nd, the next month (Masapirappu) can begin when Sun enters to the
next sign, on the last day of any month).
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(21)
Sir Namaskaram, Is the marriage between the people of the same gotram
feasible? What are the after effects that the couple might encounter after such a
marriage? Is there any remedy before conducting such marriages so as to nullify
the after effects? Kindly advice.
Though the recent supreme court Judgement on this is permitting same Gothra
marriages, the Sasthras against marrying from same Gothra. Same Gothra, despite
different caste or creed, means, the root Rishis or descendants from a particular family
tree are of same blood group. Sa-gothra stands same gothra as brother-hood hence it is
not recommended at the first place. Also, it is avoidable to marry a person from
mothers gothra too. According to medical science studies, marrying among of any
close clearive causes many problems including the child born may not be as bright or
healthy as marrying from other Gothra. More over, the mal-formations of child during
pregnancy also forewarned by researches. It is foolish to find any pariharam for
marrying among brother/sister gothra alliances. It is simply an eye-wash to change
gothra mid-way, like adopted by some other gothra persons before giving into
marriage. If more than 11 generations are passed, then one can discard this as per
Sashakya Muni.
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(22)
Can you please tell me which shlokas i need to recite to avoid all troubles and
mishaps, to protect from my enemies in worklife, colleagues who are jealous, etc
shlokas i mean from vishnu sahasranama my nakashtram is shravana and
makara rasshi
The Nakshatra & its related Vishnu Sahasranama Slokha are clearly given in this
page. . For Sravana nakshatra, you can recite the slokhas from 85 to 88. To get rid of
enemies and invisible trouble makers, you can do regular parayaNam of Sri
Sudarshana Ashtakam.

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(23)
We are a Christian family and we have been invited to a Upanayanam for the
son of our friends. We are wondering if we should take a gift to him or if this
would be inappropriate? Thank you for your time and any advise you can give
us.
Answer:
Here religion is not involved, only a personal bondage between persons that connects
human values. Surely, you can present any gift of your choice. Your presence and
blessings are more important that would honour the hosts.
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(24)
Namaskaram, I am the eldest of 2 daughters and my father is performing the
sraaddha of my late mother . Many vaadhyaars have suggested that my father do
only the hiranya sraadha and not the sraadha with homam as my parents do not
have a son living. I need your clarification whether my father can perform the
latter. Thanks
Your father can perform the Srardham with Homam (without Aupasanam/Agni
santhanam). He can, either do perform with Sankalpa srardham (minus homam but
with offering food after punyavachanam and then Aaradhanam etc.) by feeding two
Brahmins or by Hiranyam by offering raw rice, banana etc. is the last option. Agni
Santhanam & Aupasanam can only be performed with wife; so a widower has no
option but to perform only the Srardham part of the Homam. If age factor, availability

of Bruhaspathi and monetary considerations forces, then HiraNya srardham is
recommended but as a last option.
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(25)
Please tell me who all can tattoo "Chakra" and "Sangoo" in their body.
Answer:

Any one who whorships Sri Mahavishnu and follows Srivaishnava path for salvation
can get the Shanku & Chakra tattooed in their arm., by any of the Sri Vaishnava sect
jeers known as Acharyas. One must be a strict vegetarian with clean habits to have
these marks. Caste No bar.
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(26)
What is the sanctity of Madisar saree?
Answer:
Firstly,the Panchkacham Dhothi and the Madisar saree of Srivaishnavite style returns
the energy revibrated to one own body thus the loss of energy is minimal. Secondly, it
is said that it also controls the gorwth of flabs in and around naval portion thus pot
belly is not grown if used regularly. And most importantly, the falling hair from body
parts are protected thus not contaminating the surroundings. Wherein the regular saree
(kosuvam) these benefits are not given. More so, the attraction for young and aged
one alike, the Madisar saree is certainly adds beauty; now a days, even the modern
trend in the western country too admires such saree wearing style!
The Email address given by you is either wrong or fake, as the reply sent to your mail
address bounced.
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(27)
K.V. Raghavan, New Delhi. How one has to observe the Sravana viradham (on
Thiruvonam star). I want to observer very strict sravana viradham. Please
advise me what should I eat at dinner to complete the viradham. Or I should not
eat at all for all three times. Please do advise for my wife also for the same
viradham. Secondly, is it okay for myself and my wife can observe sravana
viradham together every month. Yours Truely, K.V. Raghavan
Answer:
As it is for any other vradham, on the sravana nakshatra days too one has to observe
fasting - if sound enough to withstand a whole day fasting. For seniour citizens and
children can take broken rice or cerals; whole day, concentration & meditation would
add benefits. And should avoid talking much (if possible, though very difficult to do

so) one can even observe silence for that day and chant & recite Sri Vishnu
Sahasranamam or Pancha sooktham etc. Almost, the system is equal that of Ekadasi
Vradham. Offering nivedhyam to Lord and then breaking the fasting is suggested on
the next day only with some liquid diet. This is only for the fit and able persons.
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(28)
Namaskaram, My name is Raghavan living in Delhi for the last 15 years. I am a
thengalai ieyngar. My question is eventhough, I am a big devotee of
Venkatajalapati, somehow I got attracted to Lord Shiva and I started linga
abisheakam with water every day at home. is it okay being a ieyngar person,
performing daily pooja for shiva? Also, is it okay to have a shiva lingam at home.
Please advise but dont ask me to keep the lingam away from my house. I think I
will not be able to do that.
Answer: As per the Dharma Shastra, if a person from Iyengar community has taken
the Samasrayanam from any of the Sects Guru (Achaaryan - Jeer), then one has to
strictly adhere to his Gurus teachings and follow in principle, all the guidence given as
per the specific sect. (Oordhvam, Pundareekam, Samasrayanam, Saranagathi -
Surrender etc.) If you have not taken the Pancha Samskara route of Srivaishnavite
traditions, then youre free to worship any Diety as you feel deem fit. By the way,
according to the philosaphical thoughts, all the prayers are aimed at one destination -
attaining mental happiness and Mukti. The path are diversive but the aim is same.
More so, the different methodical prayers are in effect and in force, only since few
thousands year ago. During Vedic Era, there were no split ups but persons from same
family used to worship different daiety, according to their faith. Interestingly, Kalki
Sri Ra. Krishnamoorthy used describe these trends in one of his famous & successful
novels - Ponniyin Selvan. The Charecter taken for the discussion is
"Azhwarkadiyaan" who is shown a staunch Sri Vaishnavite but his elder brother used
to worship Lord Shiva! No, I will never ask anyone to deviate from their faith and
beliefs. In Sanadhana Dharma, one has the full liberty to choose his/her own Lord &
God! Faith and belief combined with Bhakthi is more important than the identity of
any Idols. Thats the Essence of Sanaathana Dharma.
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(29)
Namaskaram. My wife is working in the medical field in a reputed institution in
Delhi and she wants to study further while she works in the same institution. But
getting admission in her institution is verry dificult as seats are limited for
forward caste like us. She is really preparing well. She wants to ask you what
kind of slogas that she has to recite every day (please prvodie if it is possible) and
what kind of viradham that she has to keep. Please do advise her.
Answer: You can refer the page on Sri Vishnu Sahasranamam & Nakshatra, select the
phrase that concern to her birth Star (Janma Nakshatram) in the Vishnu
Sahasranamam and recite it daily at available time. In addition, Shravana Vradham
(fasting on the Thiruvonam star days) would help gain ishta karya siddhi (fulfilment
of reasonable wishes). My best wishes for her to secure a seat at the desired place.
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(30)
K.V. Raghavan, New Delhi. Namaskaram, - Would you please tell me something
about ekadesi viradham and its benefits and how one has to follow during these
viradham. Would you please tell me something about ekadesi viradham and its
benefits and how one has to follow during these viradham. Also, why one should
not eat rice during ekadesi. Also, why one should not eat rice during ekadesi.
Would please tell me what is the ideal sloga one has to recite to get rid of his
enemies who is giving him a trouble continuesly and constantly. Thanks
Answer:
You may please refer this page for a detailed benefits of fasting. The very basic reason
for providing a link is to give proper guidance about the articles that are listed in this
site but might have missed ones view. As stated earlier, Sri Vishnu sahasranamam and
other sookthams are recommended for that day. Also, Sri Vedantha Desikars sthothra
maala too is recommended. To get rid of enemies, Sri Sudarsana Ashtakam and Sri
Sudarsana Gayathri are recommended.
Click Here )

(31)
Sir.I am Gopala krishnan an Iyer of Kerala.I am 64. My doubt is regarding the
Gaya sraddaha. Do Iyengars perform Gaya sraddha? Is it necessary to continue
sraddha and tharpan after wards for the pithru who has gone to Devaloka after
Gaya sraddha. If so what are the references? I have gone through many sites-
but no where it is told either to continue or discontinue.If so what is its sanctitiy?
Gaya Srardham is common to all sect of Brahmins. There is no difference to it for
Srivaishnavas, Smarthas or Madhwas. It is common to all. Even after performing the
Gaya Srardham, one has to continue performing the regular srardha during the thithi
every year. Depending on the nature, Availability of the conducting priest (Vadhyaar),
Bhoktas (Brahmins for Bhojanam), age and permissible resources, one has to continue
performing the yearly srardham as per regular stipulations - with Homam as most
recommended. However, many are unaware of this fact and either stop performing the
srardha or doing it only by Hiranyam or Aama srardham which is not recommended.
Srardham of annual thithi should not be discontinued after performing the Gaya
Srardham. By performing the Gaya srardham, one gets the multiple value of Punya-
bhalam as equate to 60 years srardha benefits. So if one continues to perform the
srardham even after the Gaya srardham, then the punya-bhalam is added. Thus the
Vamsavali or the future generations get the full benefits of this Gaya Srardham.
However, nowadays, for want of resources, time and for monetary considerations,
many persons discontinue the srardham after performing the Gaya srardham. This
practice is quite wrong in their doings. According the Vedic scripts,
Vaidhyanaatheeyam and Srivaishnava Deepika, one has to continue performing the
srardham till their life time. As far the Pithru Tharpanam during the Amavasya,
Monthly, Sangramanam, Grahanam are surely to be continued as earlier. The
Srardhanga Pithru tharpaNam is to be performed on the immediate next day to
Srardham (and not on the same day of Srardham). If age factor and monetary
considerations are not favourable, one has to perform to the minimum possible way,
i.e. by Sankalpam with Bhojanam or Hiranyam. And Sri Lord Krishna wants atleast a
TharpaNam by offerring it to the Vishnu Paadam (only, sick, aged and poor can do
the srardham just only with TharpaNam!).
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(32)
Re: Gaya sraadha Q Sir, I am summarizing what I have learnt from your
treatise given as answer to me to my previous question on Gaya sraadha. Will
you kindly confirm the same correct? 1. As we say in the end every time we
conduct sradha, to consider that Sraddaha as Gaya sradaha at least once we
should really conduct it at Gaya-The theertha sraddaha. Gaya Srradha is equal
to 60 sraadhas performed. 2. Sraadha benefit pithru and the son much more.
Pithru remain pithru- only residence change. 3. The sraadha and Tharpana have
to be continued for ones life time. It is due to the reason we do not know when
the pithrus reach Vaikunta or Sivalokam. 4. If at all our pithrus reached
vaikunta or Sivalokam our Sraddha will benefit Jnatha anjatha pithrus which
will always be there . 5. Sraadha has to be conducted even after Gaya sraadha as
long as possible .However consideration of health conditions, monetary
conditions etc can be there. Sraadha with Homam only has to be conducted
maximum possible .
Answer: Before I put my answer on other points, I wish to clarify your Point No.2 -
Pithrus too get elevated to various positions, depending on their merrit and
punyabhalam to Deva gana etc.
Herebelow, I narrate the entire benefits of Gaya Srardham and its values: To clarify to
all your doubts, I need to give an elaborative sequence to the happenings after the
departure of any soul; though none has the experience to specify happenings, it is the
Vedic reliance that was conveyed to generations through Gurukulam and then through
hear-saying. I list below the reasoning that I was told by my father & Guru (Late Mr.
TS Ramabathrachariar of Mukkur): (kandavar vindathillai, vindavar kandathillai -
those who preach about this has not seen or experienced it and those who have seen it
are eternal, not here to explain about it!) This entire script below is only for Brahmins
who are born with, to fulfill their duties as laid in the Veda Sasthra.
Not all the souls are liberated immediately on death and departure. Ultimate
destination being Kailasam aka Paramapadam, the souls wander from one location to
other, depending on their merit and punyabhalam. Only persons who pass away with
skull broke open (Kapala moksham), they attain the lotus feet of the Lord
immediately. Rest others are reaching their destinations by various steps; pithrulokam,
devalokam, etc. The actual paramapatham, Srivaikuntham or kailasam are one and the
same as per the philosophical readings. Performing of Srardham is, in the belief and
trust that we do it for our pithrus; if they are already liberated and reached their
destination, why should one perform the Srardham? We do perform the Kriya and
abhara kaingkaryam to liberate them from the earthly possessiveness, immediately on
their departure and till the 13th day; but why to call them again and
again (avaahayaami) during every Amavasya or monthly tharpanams? Why then the
aavaahanam? These questions were easily replied to me by my father, which, within
my limited knowledge, I translate and reproduce below. Having no way to know the
facts, we are instructed to continue the srardham till our life time. Here too, we do it
not only for the parents, but also for three generation viz. grand and great grand
parents. Why? If by any chance, if our parent reached the destination but any of the
grand parents left wandering, then it is for them to gain through this srardham.
Oh, what if none of them wandering but all reached safely to the Kailasam or the
Paramapadam? The very basic reason for having prescribed to perform it for three
generation is the most vital part of the value added srardham. Pithrus are known to be
of in three forms - Vasur, Rudra and Aadithya swaroopam. The latest departed soul
being the vasu roopa. (The order of family might vary if grandparent surviving but
parents left earlier etc.) Here, when you perform the srardham with homam (i.e. with
Holy fire sacrifice), after offering cooked rice as Havis, twice each to Pithru,
Pithamaha & Prapithamaha - the seventh time offering is to Njaathi - i.e. distant
cousins who left the earth. In case of anyone who left without any such ceremony
performed, let the seventh step offering reach them - that is for the Sahothra njaathi.
whether known to one or unknown face,( Njaathaa-agnjaatha, pithrupyapcha, yathaa
swaahaah:) By doing this seventh Ahuthi with Havis, that reaches to the Sahothra
Daayathi, who might have left without any kriya/kainkaryam performed for many
reasons, or for a person of the same Gothra (No issues, died at unknown place,
nobody knows who is who when left, or some of them with issues but they never
cared to perform the rituals from the beginning etc. etl.) So, even if our parents, grand
& great grand parents reached the abode, it is for us to continue the thithi srardham till
our life time, only for those who might have fortunate enough to avail the Havis.
This benefit is only achieved through performing Srardham with HOMAM! So even
when our own forefathers reached the destination, it is for unknown siblings of the
same Gothra and also for the society in general, we do offer the annual thithi
srardham. Here again, the unknown - but same Gothra soul blesses us through their
Mahalaya Srarardha visits! (Known as GaaruNya pithru, who showers the
blessings). Wherein, in other srardha performances viz. Sankalpam, Hiranyam or
Aamam, these benefits are not given excepting the one, that is, satisfying the pithrus
through BrahmmaNa Bhojanam (feeding the Brahmins).
How the Punyabhalam is transferred to the generations? When one sends a Money
order through a post office, the receiving office keeps the money with them but the
transfer is made through the book entries; though the recipient get the value of the
sent amount, the currency actually deposited is not given to them; likewise, it is said
to be of a kind of transfer of such punyabhalam to the generations. These are known
only a sookshama that is unknown to a lay person but clearly foreseen by the Rishis
and Munis through their perception of third eye known as Njaana drushti.
Quite apart from the above, The Vedic scripts and Mantras are composed & coded in
such a way, very intricate to its own values, the phonetic vibrations alone can uplift
the wandering souls to the higher plane; as is in the ether waves and radio waves that
spread all over, the phonetic vibrations of the Sanskrit slokhas too spreads in the air
and plays a vital role that offer immense benefits to the performer. (Here, the crow is
also playing a vital role in uplifting the phonetic sounds to the pithrulokam!). Only
when performed with homam, these are given thrice to the pithrus - first through the
agni swaroopam, then through the Brahmmana Bhojanam and then lastly through the
Pinda pradhanam (For Sama and Rg Vedhis three pindams and for Yajur Vedhis with
six pindams). Only on doing these three steps, then the remainder cooked rice
becomes Pithru sesham. One has to eat this pithru seasham to gain the benefits of the
srardham and only on the immediate next day, to perform the Srardhanga
Tharppanam. Now a days, I know persons performing the pithru tharppanam too on
the same day of srardham, without taking the pithru sesham. This too is wrong. The
pithru seasham is known blessings directed to us which is left untouched by many -
without knowing the values!
And now on Gaya Srardham - Even while performing the regular srardham, we
pronounce and consider, as if it is treated as performing from Gaya, irrespective of a
place where it is performed. This wording is included when we start the srardha
ceremony and also at the end. Though this is performed to liberate the souls that may
or may not be wandering in the pithru logam, the benefits are reaped in multiple way;
firstly the Holy place where the Lotus feet of Sri Mahavishnu is said to be placed, in
this kshetram where Sri Vishnu Padam is located, is more important for liberating the
wandering souls. Secondly, a Srardham performed here in Gaya gives the multiple
value, as said earlier, that equates to performing the Srardham of 60 years. Thirdly,
the srardham here are with multiple benefits, if the departed souls are already reached
the ultimate destination namely unison with the supreme power, then the srardha
benefits are redirected to be passed on to the Garunya Pithrus who are that of the same
Gothra of the performer. In case there is none to receive the pindam, then the benefits
are reserved and passed on to the coming generations as Punya Bhalam. (asmath
kulam prasoodhatham - ayam pindam swadhaa namah: - asmath kulam
abhivardhathaam).
As far the Deva Gana, Brahmins are supposed to perform the Rishi tharppaNam daily,
which is included in the routine Sandhya Vandanam; thus if the pithrus getting their
elevated status to Deva Gana, then quite naturally it is included in the daily prayer
known as Sandhyavandanam. It is added & additional benefit of performing the Daily
routine prayers, Sandhya Vandanam that is to seek the blessings from all the Form -
Deva, Rishi & elevated pithru ganas!
Well, how far the above said can be true? Who is to authenticate the sayings? Here,
the Srimad Bhagavad-Gita is the only source I can quote on faith and belief:
“samshayAtmA vinashyati” (Bhagavad-Gita Gita IV – 40) says the Lord -- ‘He who
doubts, goes to ruin’. And when He says this He adds the words ***ashraddha-
dAnascha , meaning ‘one who has no shraddhA’. In (Bhagavad Gita IX – 3), He says
(***ashraddha-danAH purushhaaH nivartante mRtyu-samsAra - vartmani) ‘the man
without faith (is ruined and) comes back to this trans-migrate cycle again and again’.
In fact he frightens us with a warning, at the same time very compassionately. It is not
just a false warning; it will surely happen that way. We should not allow it to happen.
We have to develop an unshakeable faith in the thought.
In addition to the above benefits, The Akshaya Vata and the Vishnu Pada are the only two
places where one can perform the Vedic rites not only for our forefathers, but for other
persons male or female of our known circle, family, friends, acquaintances, irrespective of
their caste or religion they might belong to; you will wonder, in these sacred places, one can
perform the finale rites also for animals, our pets, abandoned bodies, etc. This is the speciality
and uniqueness of Gaya, which draws lakhs of believers from all parts of India.
Leaving the Vedic reliance apart, in our Brahmin society, it is a supportive method to
support our community persons. There are thousands of them living below poverty
line, unable to stretch their arms for alms. At least, for their sake, the economically
sound persons should continue to perform the srardham to give some way of
livelihoods to the needy Brahmin community. It is best recommended, atleast once in
their life-time, to perform the Gaya Srardham known as Theertha Srardham and I
hope the above clarifications would convince them to accept the Vedic Scriptures
values.
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(33)
Hi, Is there a link which explains the ceremony, concept behind each ritual for
the upanayanam ceremony? My sons, aged 13 and 10 will be undergoing their
upanayanam at Chennai in July and I am trying to eductae them on the process
and concepts. Your help is appreciated. Best Regards
Answer: You can now have the details from this site itself at Poonal/Upanayanam,
Brahmmobadesam- I recommend persons to take a print out of this and distribute
during Upanayanam so as to other invitees too understands the rituals real meaning.

Click Here )

(34)
Are vaishnavas allowed to donated blood, if no what is the prayachitam I can do
after doing the blood donation. Are we allowed to donated our organs after
death?
Answer: As in those Vedic Era, there were no such practices existed as that of in
todays body part transplantations. There is no mention about blood donations of kind
in any of the scripts; excepting the Asuras & Demons drinking the human blood, there
is no mention about this specific issue. However, in the modern developed world, it is
still valid to donate blood & after death donating organs such as kidney & eyes are
surely helpful to other needy mankind. Though, the learned schollars and seers are of
different view and oppose to it, it is wise to use ones own instinctions in such matters.
Prayaschitham and pariharam can be found for this too! Performing Gayatri Japam
and and doing it with holy fire (Gayatri Homam) alone should suffice for such deeds,
as the donations are knowingly offered to other person for some life saving activities.
Donating blood and body part is certainly not against the humanity. So one can go
ahead and donate blood & body parts, if one wishes. (Ekaliva offering his Thump as
Guru Dakshina is not falling in this category!).

(35)
Sir, I am so happy that i came across your website. It is really beneficial to people
like me. I am a married non Brahmin woman. I have a few questions regarding
pooja. I started reciting VISHNU SAHASRNAMAM when i was in college and it
truly made a difference for me. I recently got married and i want to worship Sree
Maha Lakshmi. Can i recite SREE SUKTAM daily? (any restrictions) Can i
recite Lalita Sahasranmam ?(any restrictions) Do i need to have a japa mala
while i am reciting any sahasrnamam. I read all slokas loudly. I read online that
it is not good to recite loudly and that its better to meditae by not opening the
mouth. Is that correct? I really appreciate your reply.
Excepting Gayatri, all other versues can be chanted and recited aloud. Gayatri should
not be recited aloud. However a clear and silent environment is needed to chant
Gayatri and with specific count & timing too needed for this. As far Sri Vishnu
Sahasranamam and other sookthams concerned there is no such restrictions. Gayatri
can be chanted only after taking the guidance from a learned Guru as
Brahmmobadesam! and never should be recited aloud.
Japa Mala is not necessary while reciting the slokha but when reciting Gayatri, one
can keep japamala for counting.
Click Here )

(36)
IN which site we know which pasarum has been sung by alawars in which divaya
desam.Wheather any classfication has been done..... any tamil pdf format is
there. i Request you to do such classfication, so that a bhagavathas can chant
that pasarum in that temple it would be more meaning ful. kindly forgive me if i
request is not correct
There is no website that give classified poems of each Mangalasasana
Pasuram/sthalam is given. However, each site is giving only the number of pasurams
sung by respective Azhwars. Your question is now noted down and shall try to
include in the same near future, by adding it to the 108 Srivaishnava Desam articles.

Click Here )

(37)
Sir, After getting samashrayanam done, should we follow a strict regimen? Can
we eat in hotels? Are onion and garlic prohibited?
Answer: It is advisable to adhere to the stipulated norms as far as possible. The
Samasrayanam, one among the five samskaras, is done after one adopted by a Guru,
the Seers; it is always better to listen to the Guru and to follow the teachings. In the
modern time, where paucity of time and circumstances might force one to eat outside.
Still it is suggested to avoid the food items that are not recommended by our cultural
system. As for the Onion & Garlick, please read the answer given to Ms. Kavitha
Kannansquestion below in this page.
Click Here )

(38)
Sri Ramajayam! How many times should we do namaskaram ( periayavalai
sevippadhu) to elders? and How many times should we do namaskaram to God?
Thank you!
Answer: In Srivlaishnavas, The Thenkalai Samparadaya persons used to do
Namaskaram only once. But in Vadakalai Sampradayam, they should do the
namaskaram atleast four times. This is generally for any persosn to whom they offer
the namaskaram. But when doing so with any Sanyasi known as Jeers, they should do
the namaskaram till the Guru says stop! In some cases it might be even for couples of
time. While worshipping the Lord God at any temple one has to do minimum four
times of Namaskaram and atleast four round of praddikshanam.
Click Here )

(39)
Sir, What is the pariharam or prayaschitham if a Brahmin ate Non Veg? Is just
simply changing the holy thread is sufficient? - A Brahmin
Hello, if unknowingly or under compulsion anyone consumes Nonveg food, they just
can cleanse their body by consuming Panchacavyam. This panchaCavyam is to be
prepared with ritualistic way by reciting specific slokhas for each item viz. Cows
urine (Gomutram or Gomiyam), Cows Milk, Curd, Ghee and holy water. Please check
with your Vadhyar or Guru to make this one with a specific sankalpam. Then to
perform a Gayatri Homam, i.e. after qualifying with changing the holy thread and
consuming panchaCavyam, with minimum 1008 counts. Incidentally, according to old
vedic scripts, a Brahmin can consume meat flesh that belong to creatures with Five
Nails (Ooops - Dont include humans in this!) viz. Tortoise (Aamai - koorma),
Crocodile (Mudalai), Udumpu etc. Also, during some emergency time like natural
calamity, draught, war etc. a Brahmin can consume the mutton of specific animals.
This is specifically said for Brahmins as it is mentioned in some of the Vedic scripts.
There is always an exception for each and everything - especially for the Man made
Law. So, worry not. Spread word about vegetarianism; make some habitual meat
eaters to turn to veg. Try to popularize the benefits of Vegetarianizm, that itself would
become a solace and prayaschitham for the offence committed, knowingly or
unknowingly!
Click Here )

(40)
Can ladies say Vishnu sahasranamam? What other mantrams ladies can say?
Can ladies say slokas daily? I do chant slokas daily but I am only 28. Can I do
this daily...I say some ashtothrams...Narasimha astothram and Sudarshana
ashtothram. ( I think we have restrcitions for SandyaVandhanam and Gayatri
Japam only). - Kavetha Kannan
The entire Vedic scriptures are very powerful in nature as far the phonetic & aquatic
vibrations concerned. Some of the Mantras like Shri Nrusimha Sthothram, Sri
Sudarsana Ashtakam, Gayatri, Sudarsana Gayatri are of more stronger vibrations than
other mantras. In general, any Mantras, slokhas and Gayatri related to Sri Nrusimha &
Sri Sudarsana are with more stronger vibration effects. Hence it is strongly
recommended to avoid reciting and chanting by women in general. However, once
menopause crossed, there is no hormone disturbance likely to cause any damage,
hence they too can take part in reciting these slokhas. I request concerned or affected
persons, to avoid reciting these slokas at least during their inconvenient periods; thus
saving your own body mechanism; otherwise, the loss by way of your daily discharge
may be more than normal, in addition to exposing you to some sort of thyroid problem
in the later years! Sri Vishnu Sahasranamam, Sri Venkatesa Suprapatham etc can be
chanted by one and all. There is no restrictions on this. Women can chant the entire
Prabandam and pasurams; also, all the related stotras of Sri Lakshmi, Sri Sthuthi and
related subjects.
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(41)
Dear Sir,I f Dharbam the holy grass is not available, can Sandhyavandanam be
performed by wearing Pavithram made of gold? - Kavetha Kannan
Madam, there is no substitute for Dharbam. If it is not available, nothing wrong in
performing without the same. Yet, the recital values & vibrations of the Mantras are
not disturbed because of non availability of Dharbam. Yes, one can perform the daily
routine rituals without Pavithram, in case of non availability.

Click Here )

(42)
can womans do pooja with saligramaam?if no why?i heard that mens are only
allowed to do pooja.what are all the good things when we have saligramam in
houses?
To perform Saligrama Pooja, one needs to get training from an experienced Guru
which is taught to men from the day of marriage. As one has to recite and chant
various slokhas and hyms during the Salagrama Aaradhanam, women were not
allowed to perform this sort of Pooja. More over, the menstrual cycle course are
another hindrance. However, women too can take part in performing Aaradhana
whilst husband or father performs same. Women too can do the neivedhyam part and
present the preparations to the God.
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(43)
Namaskarams, In todays modern and womens liberated times,divorce is slowly
becoming a reality around us in friends & relatives,not only among NRIs but
also in India.Although it is still stigmatised in India especially SriVaishnavite
practices,it is becoming an unavaoidable price of Westernisation &
modernisation of India.More so for the thousands of Brahmins going abroad in
lure of green notes.Please give an enlightening insight into how our Hindu
tradition,especially Vaishnavite culture views it in terms of
Karmaphala,Paapam,Pariharam & Praayschitham for those who already
arevictims of this painful folly. Would like to take this opportunity to also
congratulate the people behind this site for the quality of content and great
service rendered to Vaishanavites throughout the world for this wonderful and
enlightening site. Regards Vijay
Answer: Marriage, a thousands of year affair, with good progeny and a healthy
generation to continue - has now reduced to shameless act of divorce. In many cases,
the give and take policy in day to day life is becoming one sided affair, only take and
no return. This can safely be said in the case of both partners. Moreover, the freedom
given to the younger generations from the childhood days are, in many cases misused
to find their own way, rather than accepting the traditional way of finding a partner. In
some cases, the marriages are fixed by the younger, then approved by their parents!
This is in contrast to the traditional way, where elders decide on this matter. Just
because they were brought up in an atmosphere and circumstances, where the
traditional values are forgotten. Nevertheless, parents themselves are to be blamed in
many cases, as they did not bring them up within their fold and never thought of
teaching them the values and ethos of our own culture. Ego and personality clashes,
differences in personal nature that causes the splits rather than accepting and adjusting
to the reality; Not giving any value to the progeny and future generation thoughts. In
all my researches within our community, what I found is, the most astonishing factors
that I list below: 1. Economic freedom and employment opportunity with higher pay
slab causes to gain upper-hand; the trend is mostly reversing the home maker status is
now to be the other way round, if not sharing the burden. 2. Many feels, settling in
overseas, mainly in the US of A with a green card is sole concern and for this sake,
they do not mind cheating! By hoock or crook, their interest is to land and avail the
card. Then the drama unfolds. I am telling this fact, that even among the boys are it is
their dream. 3. If born and brought up in a high rich families, these trends are some
how escapes; the middle class families dreams are too high to state here. But the lower
middle and economically lower families are some how coping with the situations to
stick together, rather than going for a divorce. 3. Parting and divorcing has become a
norm with some elite families that I observed all along. May be, they think it is a kind
of social strata that they choose or ignore the values to their personal benefits. 4. I
know a family in the US, whose wife deserted her husband after 15 years of living
with him; that too having two grown up children, now with their father. She just left
only to get more rich and married an American willingly! Leaving behind her own
issues, a boy of 14 years and a girl of 17 years. Just for sheer luxury life style. I am
worried, where these sort of marriages will lead them to. It is a shame to the
humankind that for sheer lust for money, luxury & comforts they sacrifice ethical
values and break the bondage. I do have an idea of analyzing this specific factor in a
separate page, under the lifestyle articles on this social stigma; in every possible ways
and means, that we need to organize and avoid such breaking in bondages. A solution
ought to be found out for this sort of dilution, that will be acceptable to every quarter.
Click Here )

(44)
Sir, I am from a very ritualistic south indian brahmin family.I have never missed
any ekadashi fast in my life and do recite all mantras taught by my grand
parents.I am 28 years old and am married to a punjabi non brahmin boy who
was very keen on our
Basically Poonal or Yagnjopaveetham is a must only for Brahmans for them to protect
from heredity diseases that might occur due to genetical factors.(Read my article on
Yagnjopaveetham in my web site http://trsiyengar.tripod.com). For your husband it is
not a must so you need not worry about it. Following the rituals sincerely and
adhering to its principle alone is sufficient to be a Brahman in practical. A poonal or
the Holy Thread is certainly not a show that Brahmans are class apart. Nor it can be an
identity for them to prove. A true Brahman is called "Bahu Jana Priya" the one who

loves the downtrodden and helps them to their upliftments. I am happy, even after
marrying a person from another caste, you strictly follow the rituals apart from
bringing your husband too to the salvation path. All the best.
Click Here )

(45)
Why is the banana plant used in the Hindu religious ceremonies.?
The auspiciousn functions are notable with full grown Banana trees placed in both
sides at the entrance of the place where the function is held. It is an indication that
some sort of joyous and auspicious function is held in that specific place. This
indication is a notice to any entrant who visits this place and specifically a warning
and to avoid with any other inauspicious or grave news spreading inside the joyous
celebration hall. This is to maintain the positive approach, a person with grief or
sorrow avoids getting in and the celebration mood prevails all around.. Banana leaves
are used for food serving in Every Hindu festicals/functions because: 1. There can
only be single use, so there is no contamination of diseases and / spreading diseases
due to saliva mix ups and contamination is avoided. 2. It is easily bio degradable and
mother Earth gets her value back within 30 days as manure! ( Think of plastic
materials which take around 300 years for bio-degradation) 3. If used often and daily,
there is need to plant and grow more trees; thus the surroundings become green. This
way ecological balancing is maintained. 4. Normally every banana tree grows upto 22
feet in height. Its leaves are so broad that they intake the polluted carbons and emit
more oxygen to the surroundings, thus environmentally, the surroundings becomes
more fresh with more oxygen. This way pollution is controlled to a maximum extent.
5. If any hot food is served on these leaves, the carbon contents in the leaves are
emitted through the centre nerve portion, so that the served food is left without any
slow poisoning effects. 6. Banana contains more fibre essence which is most vital to
maintain our neurological system. So they used serve first with banana fruits and
sweet at the start of food serving. To know more please read my acticle on this subject
at the site : "GoBananas"
Click Here )

(46)
Thanks a lot for your prompt answer for my previous question about
yajnopaveetham for my husband. Since I have been taught about daily pooja by
women ,I do it regularly.Also I was told that tulsi leaves are to be plucked only
by men and not women.Is it so? I face this problem since when my husband is
away on job commitments there is nobody to pluck it.Can you please guide me?
The commonly known Tulsi is very powerful and a too sensitive plant. It is known as
Sacred Basil or Holy Basil in English and the Botonical Latin name is : Osimun
Basilicum. You just cannot describe its values in terms as of any other ordinary plant..
It has highest medicinal values in addition to its devine in nature. Lord Sri
Mahavishnu is called "Tulasi Priya". Because of its sensitivity in nature, it is advised,
it is not plucked by women in general, or atleast during their mensus course. This
might cause the plant to get dried sooner. Iit should not be plucked before or after sun
rise & set. It should be plucked without using the nails before 12 noon. And one

should do soonly after cleansing their body & mind. Before doing so, a prayer must be
offered daily which is in Sanskrit - I roughly give in phonetic English : "Vrindaayai
Thulasee Devyai, Priyaayai Kesavyasya Cha, Kesavaarthe sinomi Dhwaam Varadhaa
bhava sarvatha:"
Click Here )

(47)
Dear Sir, What are the rituals/prayers that Iyengar ladies should perform daily?
According to Srivaishnava Sathaachara Nirnaya there are a lot of postings given for
women to do her daily rituals. But in to days world, it is not practicable entirely.
However, the most vital & important Sthree Dinasarya is listed for every Sumankali to
follow. Raise before ones husband at the early morning 3.30 4.00 AM (it is known as
Brahma Muhurtham). Follow your routines. Do perform Achanamam by in taking
drops of water thrice, first by pronouncing Achyutha, second Anantha and third one
by calling Govinda. Recite Thiruppalliyezuchi, then prabhandham etc. Prepare all the
arrangements for the Nithya Thriuvaaradhanam, which will be performed by
Husband. Help in your husbands every act. Be kind, polite, and soft; and do every act
of yours by devoting your mind and soul to the one, the Pathi. Light the Lamp, in the
morning & evening. Be as clean as a Crystal. Serve the Lord, by helping and serving
your Husband. Bring up the children, as honest and believers of the Lord, for they are
the leaders of tomorrows world. Help them to learn in their studies and prayer, which
is most important. Prepare and feed them as tasty as it should be. Your every step and
act should keep the entire family in a well knit one with joy and happiness.
Elaborating the other rituals will make one to laugh in todays modern world. Most of
the thing deal in hygiene and personal in nature, which the modern science take much
more care than the scripts. Chanting some of the vedic scripts are prohibited by
women. It is in the better interest of womans glory. Please read the reasons for same at
: http://www.trsiyengar.com/id51.html
Click Here )

(48)
Wearing a ring on a particular finger means something,(eg) finger next to small
finger on left hand signifys marriage What is the meaning of wearing rings on
other fingers of the hand Thumb Small finger Middle finger fore finger?
Thankyou
Thumb - connected to sexual organs hence any friction in this finger might cause
disturbing effect in mind and act. Fore finger - for prosperity, wisdon, knowledge and
peace. Middle finger - the nerve passes through the brain divider line hence it is better
no be disturbed with any metalic friction. Little finger for memory power, learning
capacity, administrative skills, etc. When a planet is weak in ones horoscope, then
he/she is advised to wear a particular stone/ring to offset the ill effects of the weak
planet. Generally these sort of Ring with stone is a suggestive to gain some value by
getting the right combination of mineral contents and the cosmic radiation of a
specific gem stone.
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(49)
During the chanting of tiruppavai can we chant manthras of mangalshasanam
As per the rituals, Mangalasaasanam should be chanted seperately at the end.
Otherwise, it can be chanted seperately after an interval. For any Manthra slokham or
Vedic recital should always be at the end or on completion of Thiruppavai only. This
is just only to give concurrence to the paasurams. This has been practiced at many a
places.
Click Here )

(50)
Dear Sir, Why is that onion and garlic should be avoided in food? Thanks -
Kavetha Kannan
It is a matter of fact that the oil substance available in the Garlic and Onion are with
very bad odors. More so in the Onion which causes bad breath. In addition, the oily
substance traces are stored in the skin layers which causes some abnormality in skin
conditions. Over and above, the sweat emanated from the regular onion consumers
body is very difficult tolerate. If regularly consumed, then the skin layers absorb the
oil and this is likely to carried on to the next generation too! (Thats what you call as
genetical factor!) Normally, Srivaishnavites & Jains in general avoid using onion for
this main count. In addition to this, the Onion is likely to cause some imbalance in the
reproductivity organs and the sperm or ovum count drastically fluctuates to the lower
counts. Though, no medical analogy is yet available on this, the Srivaishnavites
believe it is to be true. That is the main reason it is advisable to avoid these two stuffs
in your food items. However, garlic can be used for some medicinal purposes when
warranted.
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(51)
Sir, here I would like to get my following doubt clarified by you. Certain temples
in South India have practice of allowing only Hindus inside the temple premises.
Certain other temples allows only brahmins inside the temple premises. Sir, I
would like to know as to why this practice is being followed. Since God is the
creator of each and every living being why are a few not allowed to have a
glimpse of their own creator. In Guruvayoor they had even stopped the well
known singer KJ Yesudas from entering the temple premises. Whereas it is a
world known fact that Yesudas is such a singer who has released numerous
albums on Ayappan, Guruvayoor, etc. and his cassettes and CDs are also being
played by the temple authority. When Temple authorities can play the song sung
by him why to prohibit him from entering the temple. Sir, when god does not see
caste or creed while creating a person why should we stop the person just
because of caste or creed. Sir, I shall be grateful if you could clear the doubt by
providing me reply to my questions.
It was purely for the sake of maintaining hygenic conditions, in those days they did
not allow the non-brahmin personnels inside the temples; Because they were not
keeping themselves clean. But in todays environment, they do keep & maintain most
hygenic conditions, they should never be stopped from entering the temple.
Practically, Veda never discriminates anyone from worshipping. It is the half baked
pundits and prohits who could not understand what civilization is! As far the temples
which stops entry to others, they are still living in the stone age. The religious fanatics
are very well present in every caste & community. That much one can be sure of. To
be frank with you, A Brahmin can NEVER consider himself as superior to others,

only just because he was born in the community. Even a downtrodden or a lower caste
person can far more equal to a Brahmin, if he keeps himself to the human cause. The
phrase "Brahmmana Bahu Jana Priya" is now twisted to shame and wrong meaning
given as "Bhojana priya". One can understand the human values and ethics that were
prevailing during vedic era.
Click Here )

(52)
Dear Sir, Thank you for the prompt response to my previous question. On
Ekadashi day, must one fast the entire day or can one meal be taken during the
day? Can milk, yogurt and fruits be taken? What foods can be taken on
dwadashi day? Thanks!
It is for the fittest one to observe fast whole day on Eakadasi. However one can
consume liquid foods like milk and fruit juices. For the children and aged ones or for
the sick persons, they can have broken rice cooked, yoghurt and fruits. They can have
any light lunch only and rest of the day fasting. On the Dwadasi day, fasting person
must eat in the early morning, and in addition to regular food, they should add Banana
Tree trunk portion (Vazhai Thandu), Hawala (nellikkai) and green leave known as
Sesbania grandiflora (Agathi Keerai) etc.
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(53)
Who is a Srivaishnavan?
A person who worship Lord Sriman Naaraayanan - who is Himself Is Everything. To
qualify to be A Srivaishnavan one has to understand the Pancha Samskaaram, who
believes in the Supremacy of Sriman Naarayana & does his daily routines, the one
who never gets Angry, a learned one, who loves the down troden (Bahu Jana -
Brahmmana Bahujana priya). He who performs Daily agni Santhanam, Daily
Araadanam -Ijjya, applies the Oordhva Pundaram, recites the Vedam or atleast the
Gaayatri daily without fail.
Click Here )

(54)
Why should one Fast on Eakadasi etc & What is the importance of same?
Fasting on any specific day is to clean and refresh the body mechanism. This helps to
keep one healthy for a long time as frequent fastings allow the body system for
overhauling. Please read the article on Eakadasi fastings Page in the Srivaishnavam
practices for a full coverage. (www.trsiyengar.com/id18.shtml )

Click Here )

(55)
What is the inner meaning & benefit of Achanamam?
Starting from Achuthaaya Nama: we touch the part of the body where the Lord resides
within ones body portion for each Name. The twelve important Names which controls
the entire body mechanism. The scientific value counts. By touching each portion
while the specifc name, the body magnetic system spreads the calories evenly to other
parts of the body, where it may by required. Also while doing any pooja or
performing any Homan one has to sit for hours causing difficulties. To avoid tiresome
and body ache, it is often advised to practice Achanaman as many times as possible.
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(56)
Sir I want to buy some original rudraksh, can u suggest me the name from where
i can get it. I m in india(Bombay),Please mail me the address nearer to me
possibly in india. I want follwing types of rudraksha. Ek mukhi Two face Three
face Four face
Before you decide to buy one, it is advisable to know the value of Each Rudraksha
mukhis in details and also its medicinal/spiritual value and tantric powers. Please log
on to web site http://www.rudraksha-center.com/ and you will get a detailed report on
each and every variety available on sale. (you can also place your orders online). I can
suggest you the remedial solution only on knowing the purpose for which it is needed.
Also, the genuine Ekamukhi costs exorbitantly and can only be procured after
verifying the genuinness of same through some laboratory tests. Since you are a
resident of Mumbai you may contact me over phone 022 24010223 or on mobile
9869070223 for further assistance. best wishes
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(57)
It was a pleasure reading through this website. For a person being a
"SriVaishnava", not knowing the scientific meaning to so many practices and
following them blindy, it has been an enlightening experience. I have a couple of
questions: 1) why do men have to wear a pair of "punul"(yagno pavitham) after
wedding unlike bachelors wearing just one? 2) I being a srivaishnava lady in my
30s and married to a SriVaishnava want to get "Samashrayanam" done. Is it ok
for me to get it done now? Are there any restrictions on a woman getting it done?
3) what is the scientific reasoning behind offering of "tarpanam" on the
amavasya day despite following the annual "Shradham"? and why only the
amavasya day for it? Thanks in advance. Regards.
Answer: Men to wear a pair of Yagnjopaveetham to signify taking the
grahasthashramam, i.e. entering into married life. Yes, you can get the SamasrayaNam
done at any time now. There are fewer easily followable conditions apply for this.
Nothing very strict. As far the TharppaNam concerned, all the matters are discussed in
Q & A format at this page. Also, the meaning with simple explanations are given
alongwith TharppaNa mantram in this website pages.
Click Here )

(58)
Sir, We are iyengars. Married and have no issus. Undergone abortions for five
times. Because, heart beat of the child was stopped during in the month of 4 or 5
months. Hence I / we have planned to adopt a child from an agency. What is the
procedure in our vaishnavism. Is it permissible in our Hinduism. After adoption,
what will be the next procedure to adopt. Thank you very much jaisreeram.
Answer: In Srivaishnavam and in Sanathana Dharma it is permissible and practiced to
adopt a child. The dharma sastra prescribe to bring up the child as that of your own.
Thats all.

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(59)
respected mama, i am married to ahobilamutt followers(vadakalai iyengars)
whereas my paternal relatives are hebbar iyengars(parakalamutt followers).
what is the kind of srijayanthi(mannar /tholappar/pancharatra etc.) by all of us?
what are the dates of this year? regards sowmya
Answer: Since both sects follow the Pancharatra procedures, you can celebrate the
fistivals according to pancharatra niyama. For detailed festival dates you can visit this
page.

Click Here )

(60)
May I know the place [mothers place or in laws place] for the seemantham to be
performed. Thanks
Normally, the Seemantham is performed at the Boy (husbands) home side. However,
if for some reasons of practicability and available resources, it can be performed at
any places but the general idea is, the total cost is borne by the boys side. Even after
delivery, which takes place at the girls/wifes parents place, the expenses for the
namakaranam too is to be borne by the boys/husband side!
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(61)
Sir, Which mantra/sloka is appropriate to mentally chant while taking morning
bath? Can Gayatri be mentally chanted at the time of morning bath? Thank you,
Answer: Though in Srivaishnava Sampradaya, there is a lengthy proceedure to follow
for taking bath, I give here only the simplest one that every one can follow easily.
Once can recite the following stanzas during taking their regular bath:
Nandinee, NaLinee, Seethaa, Malathee cha malaabahaa |
Vishnupaadaajasampootha, Gangaa, thripathakaaminee ||Bhageerathee, Bhogavathee,

Jahnavee, thrithaseswari ||
GangE cha YamunE chaiva GOthaavari, Saraswathi | Narmade, Sindhu, Kavari

jalEsmin sannithim kuru ||
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(62)
Respected Sir, I have one question. On the sraadha day, we invite 5 brahmins
(bruhaspathi, brahma, pitru, visvedeva, mahavishnu. We offer food to bhokthas
i.e. pitru, visvedeva and mahavishnu. Can any one of the bhokthas belong to the
same gothra as the dead person?
Answer: As per strict niyama, no person of same gothra can be invited as Bhoktha.
However, Brahma & Bruhaspathi persons can belong to any Gothra if they are not
taking seat of Bhokta sthana. In simple terms, sahothra persons cannot be offered the
Bhoktha of Viswedeva, Pithru or Mahavishnu positions in any Srardham. These are
already explained in the page under heading Srardha Dharma & Tharppana Niyama of

this website.
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(63)
Sir, Each sect of Brahmans follow a different Veda. This is as per my Knowledge.
Which veda being a sri Srivaishna i should follow. I got upanayanam very
recently. so what would be the sri vaishnava procedure for doing sandya
vandanam. please help me out in this .I have no elderly person to suggest me in
this Since i Lost my father a couple of years back
Answer: As a matter of fact, Upanayanam is performed as per their following of a
specific Veda. All the three Vedas, viz. Rg, Yajur & Sama are common to all. Yet,
each Veda is followed by a group that belong to such practices of their elders. While
you prostrate to elders, you are supposed to declare the Gothra Pravaram that
includes your Veda, It is known as Abhivathanam. If you know the abhivadana
mantra, you can simply locate in from it, that begin with Abhivaadaye, then names of
Gothra Rishis, then the soothram and then the Veda one follows, followed by

Gothrram. So, in your case, you need check the Abhivadanam where the Veda that
you need to follow is simply included. You can check with your family elders or with
the vadyar whom performed the Upanayanam so that you can get your doubts cleared
Click Here )

(64)
If an Iyengar wedding is scheduled on Amavasai, is it a must for the parents &
relatives of Bride and Bridegroom to do Tharpanam that day? Usually on
Amavasai, people doing tharpanam donot eat outside. Is it applicable if they are
attending the wedding? please calrify....
Srivaishnavas or for that matter any Hindu community will never fix or perform
wedding on the Amavasya day ! It is a general condition that any auspicious function
is to be avoided on Amavasya.

Click Here )

(65)
why dont you let us into the golden temple complex? why do you give us only a
gallery view?is gold only for the rich?
Well, you can put your question directly to the authorities at sripuram Golden temple
at these email addresses: contact@sripuram.org or at direct@sripuram.ord


(66)
My humble Salute (Dhanda Samarpanam). We are blessed with Two sons whose
birth details are as under. 1. M.S. SRINIVAS, PUNARVASU, D.O.B. 01-08-1997
2. M.S. VEERARAGHAVAN, ANURADHA, D.O.B. 16-02-2001 (Srivatsa
Gothram) Now, we wish to do Upanayanam for our sons. Our Brother-in-laws
son (19 years old) is also there in our family for whom also we are yet to do
Upanayanam. Kindly advise us whether we can do for both our sons on a same
day even if brother-in-laws son is there. Thanks N Regards G. HARIPRIYA
There is no harm in performing Upanayanam for your kids when your b-i-l"s son is
there. But suggest you can take this opportunity to perform the upanayanam to your
brother in laws son too at the same venue and date! Then it becomes a samashti
upanayanam where only the elder boys suitablity of nakshatra/muhurtham/lagnam
would suffice.
( 2 visitors thought it is useful, 1 visitors thought of no use. What do you feel? Click
Here )

(67)
Please name the 4 tamil important months in which
Tharpanam has to be performed.
Answer: Chaitra (Mesha Sangramanam), DakshinayaNa Punyakalam in Aadi
month, Thula SangkramaNam in Aippasi month and UtharayaNa Punyakaalam in the
month of Thai are the four most important Sangkramana Tharppanam is to be
performed.

Here )

(68)
SIR, NAMASKAR I HAVE A DOUBT REGARDING PERFORMING OF THE
YEARLY DEVASAMS. CAN A PROHITHAR (TAKING THE PLACE OF
ACARYA) PERFORM THE DEVASAM IN THE ABSENCE OF THE
KARTHA (THE KARTHA BEING OUT OF CHENNAI/INDIA). IN SUCH A
CASE, CAN THE PROHITHAR TAKING POWERS OF THE KARTHA
PERFORM THE RITUALS LIKE POURING ELLU THIRTHA, PLACING
PINDU, ETC. DO OUR SASHTRAS ACCEPT SUCH A DEVASAM AS
SATISFACTORY AND COMPLETE. IF YES, CAN YOU ALSO GIVE ME
THE REFERENCE THANKS
Answer: No, karthaa must perform the srardham with the guidance and can be done
with the help of Prohitha. Only in case of Kartha has some disability, invalid,
handicapped or bedridden due to illeness, then in his presense Prohitha/Vadyar or
some one else from the circle can take the power of attorney (taking Kaippil) and
perform it. If a able Kartha is out of station or on foreign jaunts, then he can perform it
on his return at the stipulated atlernate dates.Please refer this page for detailed
clarifications and the alternate days for a missed srardham.
Here )

(69)
With reference to serving of food in plate/leaf, is there a specific way or order in
which items are to be served? What is the Iyengar tradition of doing it? Should
rice be first served and then followed by vegetables and parupu etc?
Answer: Though this is purely a sampradaya matter the Vadakali & Thenkalai sect
has their own serving type. In general, for all auspicious functions, fruit and sugar is
to be served first for both sects. Thenkalai sampradaya persons serve with dal and
vegetables and then lastly rice and ghee. But Vada kalai sampradaya starts with fruit,
sugar, rice, ghee, dal and then other items. But for both sects, only druing pithru pooja
known as srardham, rice is to be served first followed by payasam, ghee, bakshanam,
dal and other items.
Here )

(70)
Whats all the fuss about Akshaya Tritiya - Also, I read that all the hype is
nullfied since "agni nakshatram" co-incides on the day of Akshaya Tritiya this
year according to some. What is the take on this whole matter with
Srivaishnavam??
Answer: A detailed article is published in this page about Akshaya Tritiya. There
is no effect on Agni Nakshatram coinciding this day. The day still holds it full
auspiciousness!
Here )

(71)
I got married 3yrs ago and me and my wife are not yet Blessed with a Child.
though we are underoing treaments, I had been told that in case of failure to do
PITHRU KARMAS properly our chances of getting good child will be delayed. If
my father is unable to do (due to health condition)what is the option? should i do
this? Is there anyway we can do Pariharam in any Vaishnava temple to get rid of
this.
Answer: Doing parihara shanti homam at Thiruppullani Kshetram is to weed off all
sorts of doshams and also to have a goog progeny. You may get the details of the
temple and its importance from this link.

Here )

(72)
My wife gave birth to a boy baby on 25.05.10 at 5:40pm. In the meantime , my
brothers wife gave birth to a girl baby on 28.05.10 at 9:30 pm. My question is :
when should i perform the punyagavachacnam (incl. namakaranam) for my
child ? This question arised because we thought the theettu(vriddhi) will get
extended because of the birth of my brothers child. thank you very much in
advance for your earliest reply.
Answer: For for both the child, namakaramam & Punyavachanam can be performed
on the 7th June 2010, as the Theettu/Pila/Aachoucham is getting over by then. If it is
conducted at a different location and both want to join each others function, then it
can be performed on the 20th day, which is permissible according to Sastra. Most
importantly, the 8th house to the Muhurtha Lagna is to be clean, without any maletics
& no Chara Lagnam to be taken. The rest other conditions such as Thithi & Nakshatra
can be had from any Panchangam under the head of Namakaranam.
Here )

(73)
Narayana adiyen dasan swami I am initiated in the Iskcon and after a period of
years I fall in love the sri vaishnava sampradayaam and have begin practising as
a beginner.And I would love to initiated into sri vaishnavaism but I do not have
the mean to travel to India and I also find it difficult to get instruction due to in
malaysia we hv limited sri vaishnava devotees. so what is your recommendation
swami and I would appreciate is swami can help me out. dasan
Answer: Though Sandhyavandanam can be performed daily, the other rituals such as
Thiruvaaradhanam can be continued from the 11th day after changing the
Yagnjopaveetham (Poonal), i.e after the Achoucham is over.

Here )

(74)
sir . iam doing thrikala sandhyavandhanam. everyday. iam reserved to go for
udupi. in train we can do the madhaynika sandhyavandhanam ,sayasandhya
please tell if madyanikam in train is ok .
Answer: One can even do the maanaseeka sandhyavandanam during such inetivable
circumstances. Oh, one can do the sandya vandanam without water, when not
available, one use the dust or poweder mud to perform the same!!

Here )

(75)
Swami I work for BPO company. I go early and come late. Daily morning, i do
pooja to saligrama. I want to recite vishnu shashranamam, but due to time
constraint, i cound not do it while doing pooja. As daily practice, while travelling
in train, i recite vishnu shashranamam. It will take 40mins to reach the
destination with in that time i will complete reciting. I do like mediation, that no
body can hear. By this i get satisfied that atleast once vishnu shashranamam is
recited. Last sunday in the upanysam it was told that vishnu shashranamam can
be said only in the temple or pooja room. Is it so, if yes, for saying all these days
in train what prayachitam i should do? When i checked this with the
upanyasagar he has no answer, can you please clarify for me.
Answer: Due to modern day circumstances & compulsions of survival, the time
constraints are much more one need to adjust and accommodate. One can surely recite
Sri Vishnu Sahasranamam at his/her available time but it should not be aloud and only
maanaseekam. There is no harm in doing so if one does the maanaseeka recitals
heartily. No prayachitham or pariharam needed for this.
Here )

(76)
dear sir can u please give me details of importance of doing
seemandam/valakappu & how & when they r to be done. what r the rituals
--what to buy & religious details
Answer: The details and other explanations are already listed in this website at
http://www.trsiyengar.com/id156.shtml and hope this would suffice your querry.

Here )

(77)
Namaskaram Sir! Thanks to you for giving us such a wonderful site to learn
about our Sampradhayam. I am an Iyengar women and I have a question about
womens menstural cycle considered as Theetu in Vaishnava Sampradhayam. I
have been reading a lot in ur website of late as i was interested in knowing more
about our Vaishanava Sampradhayam. I was trying to find an answer to this
question in the FAQ section. As i dont see any such questions before, i am posting
this question hoping to hear ur answer. I dont follow our Sampradhayam
completely after my marriage though i was raised totally in it. We live in US and
my husband and myself say few shlokams in the morning but my husband does
not perform Thiruvaradhanai. I dont go to the pooja room and avoid telling
shlokams during my cycles. But i feel very guilty and confused during those
times. I do the cooking during those times too. My husband doesnt give more
importance to Theetu and he says, if i want to follow the Theetu, its only upto me
and i have to do all the arrangements prior to it including entire cooking for 3
days. I would like to know how sinful whatever i am doing is. In modern times,
everything has become very safe and hygenic. Was this theetu observed earlier
only for hygenic purposes or is their any other religious significance to it? Please
clarify this to me. I get very upset when i get my cycle that i am not able to
observe theetu. Regards and thanks.
Answer: In the modern day lifestyles and nuclear families splintered all over, the
question of following such rigid practices are becoming meaningless. Though the
system mainly emphasys on health & higine, the religious tenets cannot be fully
ignored. But the fact is, despite the availablity of modern sanitary products, the
naturally emitted body odour and the bodys negative energies produced during the
course periods cannot be fully removed. These are the main reasons, one is advised to
keep at a distance from the Pooja room. (Oh, in the past, the rigid Srivaishnava
Sampradayam prohibited even hearing the voice of a women during her monthly
periods!).
In practical terms, how far one can adhere to it, the Sampradayam? What if a family
stays in a dormitary single room known as chawl system can do during these days?
That too with many women members and going through different days of cycles? It is
best recommended to accommodate the religious sentiments as far as possible without
mixing generally with others. The best recommended solution is to maintain highest
standards of higine; not to touch or have physical contacts with other members.
Avoid reciting any slokas and entering into the Pooja room (oh, only if it is in a
seperate room !) The same applies to going to any temples.
(Ponder a while - how practical it would be for the present generation! When I was a
bachellor, at the age of 17 years, I visited one of my relatives home in Mumbai for
lunch and the food was served by a person who was on her monthly periods. This I
came to know only a few days later. When my grandma came to know about this, she
immediately consulted a religious schollar, for a pariharam. On whose advise, I was
asked to intake Panchacavyam, then change the Poonal (the holy thread) and to
perform a Gayatri homam for 1008 ahuthis as prayaschitham. This was followed by a
Theertha snanam at a Holy river! I did everything as dictated. What I feel now is, in
the present days circumstances, many may have to do it every month repeatedly, till
the houselady crosses her menopause !)
Here )

(78)
Srimathe Ramanujaya Namaha, I have read about the samashrayanam ritual, is
it permissable for a women to undergo Panchasamskaram from the acharya?
Answer: Yes, a woman too get it from the respective family acharyan. Thoughl, the
Samasrayanam & Bharanyasam are given to women disciples, but in general, it is best
advised to take it from the Acharyan as couples - husband and wife together.
Here )

(79)
Swami - please accept my pranams. The questions and answers are very useful to
understand some of the practices that we follow or try to follow. If you could
clarify my below questions, it would be helpful 1. What category of people
deserve the Sadari to be placed on their head and shoulders? 2. Why children
less than a year are not qualified to receive the Sadari? 3. In some temples, men
are asked to remove the upper garment at certain point before the sanctum
santorum. Only then, they are given the Theertham and Sadari or stand outside
and receive the same. I observed this in Lakshmi Hayagreevar at Nanganallur
and at Naramsimhar Temple, Parikal. I have read in one of your earlier answers
that it is to receive the magnetic powers into the body that emanates from the
sanctum. But still, why this exist as a temple specific practice or does it depend
on any other factors?
Answer: 1. A scholarly Person with Srivaishnava following deserves Sadari placed at
his head and right side shoulder after receiving Theertham and garlands.
2. Earthly one full year is considered a second for the creator, The Brahma; before he
finishes his writing of the fate of the child, it is considered not to erect the horoscope,
not to give Sadari etc. and only on completion of one full year and Abthapoorthy,
these merrits are given.

3. Quite apart from the general rule that only a qualified person enters into sanctum
sanctorum, some temples have some more rigid rules, especially most of the Sri
Nrusimha/Sri Sudarsana & Hayagriva temples, where more powerful vibrations are
emanated due to the Lords powerful nature; it is aptly advised to follow and adhere
maximum cautions while entering these Temples. The nature of powerful vibrations
depends on many counts, including Daily rituals according to the Vedic dictats and
the temples location, magnetic path and many more points are to be considered.
Here )

(80)
Dear Sir, How are Massikam and Oonamasikams dates Calculated?
Answer: Masikam or Masyams are performed every month till the Aabdeekam, on
the specific Thithi of the departed soul. First Oona masikam from 27th to 30 days but
before the first thithi masyam. The Tripaksha oona masikam from 40th to 45th day.
Sixth oona masyam between 171 days but before 180 days. The Oona Abdeekam
between 341 and 355 days. If the Aabdeekam thithi falls before the said Abdeekam,
then it can be performed two days earlier to the Aabdeekam.

The simplest general conditions are, it should not on any Dwadasi day, Janma
Nakshatra day of the Kartha or his brothers & sons, not on any Friday or Tuesdays,
not on any Sunday that combines with Uthrashada (Uthiradam) nakshatra. There are
many more conditions apply that you can check with your Bruhaspathi/Vadyar.
Here )

(81)
Dear Sir, My wife is due to deliver a baby on 9th June. According to tradition,
Punyavachanam is to be performed on the 11th day. This falls on a Saturday .
Since we live in UK, the priests in the nearby temple cannot come on that day to
perform the function, as the temple is very busy during weekends. Are there any
other days that one can perform punyavachanam and naamakaranam? We
would be grateful for an early reply, Thanking you, Sreekanth
Answer: For the naming ceremony known as Namakaranam & for the
Punyaavachanam, the general rule is to perform it on the 11th day for Brahmins, 12th
day for Kshatriya, 16th day for Vaisya & 21st day for Soodra. But one can perform it
on the 20th day for all the four classes without any hitch. Most importantly, the 8th
house to the Lagna of the Muhurtha day is to be blank or clean without any malefics.
The most favourable Nakshatra days to be considered if the same is held on other days
viz. Ashwini, Rohini, Mrigaseersam, Punarpoosam, Poosam, Magam, Uthiram,
Hastam, Chitra, Swathi, Anusham, Moolam, Uthiradam, Thiruvonam, Avittam,
Uthirattathi & Revathi. Other 12 stars to be avoided. Sthira Lagnam or benefics with
Chala lagnam (Ubhaya rasi) are said to be auspicious for Namakaranam.
Here )

(82)
Ive booked a Car in Amavasya time by paying an initial amount, the delivery is
later & rest of the amount has to be paid later. It is not considered auspicious to
buy new things on an amavasya. Is there any dosha pariharam for buying in
Amavasya time
Answer: Nothing to worry about it. Amavasya is considered an auspicious day for
Srivaishnavas! However, no auspicious ceremonies such as Pumsavanam,
Seemantham, marriage, Upanayanam etc. are performed on this day. If the Janma
nakshatra falls on Amavasya day, then surely one can perform the Ayush Homam,
Sashtiyabthapoorthy etc. and also namakaranam & Punyahavachanam too can be
performed on this day! To buy a new car or any other Vehicles Saturday is the best
day, if it is not falling on Ashtami/Navami etc.
Here )

(83)
In temples, during every day worship, they show the karpoora arathi to the diety
and bring it to the devotees. The normal practice is that everyone accepts that
(taking it to their eyes or head). But I have seen that in family as well as in few of
our vaishnavite family circle, we never do that and rather just leave it when the
Archakar brings the plate containing the arathi. The explanation given is that
the karpoora arathi is done as to remove the a Dhrishti to the perumal and not to
be taken by us. But I have seen many vaishnavites, saivites and others do that in
many of the temples. What is the right procedure? What is the significance of
accepting it or pitfalls in leaving it?
Answer: In those olden days when electric lamps were not in use or not installed, the
Main Deitys grabhagraham used to be very dark and only the oil lamps used to get
light which was insufficient to view the Idols with clarity. Hence the Karpoora
Harathi in the temples are offered by devotees who wanted to have a more brighter
look of the Idols. While offering the karpoora harathi, the priest is supposed to explain
the lords postures and its significance with each part from the Kreedam to the feet;
thus devotees too get the meanings for each of the ornaments, postures etc. that are
explained. (Once on completion of the Aarathi, the priest is supposed to drop the
burning camphort at a pre arranged location or leave the plate as it is, but by doing
so, he may not get his due share of the devotees offerings!)
By using the pure camphore keeps the sanctum sanctarium out of any sort of pollution
and or other radiation quite apart from the camphor aroma that spreads in and around
the Sannidhi. It is, thus, creating more conducive atmossphere for prayers, that again
produces more positive vibrations/energies in and around the Grabagraha. (Usage of
other impure camphore chemical mixed tablet format of camphor than the original and
pure one is counter-productive).
It is certainly not an acceptable pracctice to touch or take it by your hands. Most of the
Srivaishnavites who are aware of this, do not touch or take the same to their eyes/face
or head. And it is holds no meaning. One need not condemn the practices, but educate
the masses with the actual meaning that would automatically eradicate these ill found
myths.
Here )

(84)
On the demise of a batchlor, the rituals conducted for 13 days are the same as for
grihastas? Is there any difference in prathyabdika shraadha rituas ?
Answer: NO, the rituals ends with 10th day, instead of prabhootha-bhali, a ritual
known as Narayana Bhali is given. There after, no other rituals or aabdeekam needed
to be performed. It it common for all Brahmin community, to conduct the Narayana
Bhali for Kanya (unmarried women) and Brahmmachari (Bachellor) on their demise.

Here )

(85)
1. doing sandyavandanam in the morning alone will take the individual to what
level wrt to srivaishanavam. 2. when an individual goes overseas from india does
our hindu mytholgical aspects still work.. for eg doing amavasai tharpanam ,
thevasam , avani avittam etc etc. the question why i am asking because some one
told me that doing all this religious aspects are tailored only to do the things if u
are in india. bharatha varushe , bharatha kande.. where as if u r in dubai i
cannot tell the same or shall i have to change something and tell.. please show
some light on this. 3. what are all the things one person has to do if he is not in
india and has gone overseas for employment.
Answer: Though it might look odd, one has to pronounce the place where he dwelves
and resides. In such cases, a person staying in Europe can add airoppia kande, and
persons in Africa can add Africa kande and the country he resides etc. In your case
you can add Dubai varushe Arabic kande. Yes, the sankalpam is meant for the
Bharatha Kande i.e. India hence one need to change the sankalpam details according
to the place. Continent & country can be easilyy replaced with that of Bharatha

varushe/Bharata kande. Carrying your panchangam details to other contries too is of
no use, as the time/date differences to that of India!
Here )

(86)
Dear Sir, i wish to introduce myself as Sowgandhika. Im a Madhwa Kannada
Brahmin from tamilnadu, brought up in Mumbai. I am married to a vadagalai I.
yIngar i have some questions regarding the vikruthi calendar sir, sri narasimha
jayanthi according to the calendar in your website fell on 27th May, 2010,
however, according to other calendars it was on 26th May, 2010. could you
explain why there was this difference? By sri jayanthi on 1st Sept and 2nd
september do you mean srikrishna jayanthi? thanks for an extremely
informative website. warm regards sowgandhika krishnan
Answer: According to Pancharatra agama the same was held on 26th May. Sri
Jayanthi is Sri Krishna Jayanthi, thats how Srivaishnavas call the festival! The
followers of Sri Ahobila Mutt and Pancharatra celebbrate it on the 2nd while the
Vaikanasa agama and Andavan Ashram /Munithraya sampradaya followers celebrate
it on the 1st of Sept. 2010.
Here )

(87)
can we perform homam for house on chandrasthma day.
Answer: No is the answer. For any auspicious function, Chandrashtama days of the
performer & his/her partner should be avided and not to have Moon in the 8th house
to the selcted day of Muhurtha.


(88)
Sir, should we make horoscope according to local mean time or Indian standard
time ? If some one was born in Pune , maharashtra , should we make kundli
PUNE TIME or IST ? IST & LMT show a big difference. I thank you,sir.
Answer: One should always take the local Sun Rise time to calculate the local birth
time and the siderial time to erect the birth chart. Since the Standard time is for
connvenience, it cannot be taken to make a birth chart. And the local time and Sun
rise timings vary to place to place which is based on the locations longitude and
latitude. Here again, the local Ayanamsa too differes based on the tophographical
locations.
Most of the compuuterized chart preperations are based on the Siderial timings that is
compuuted automatically, converting the Local Time and Standard time for each
location.
And your question is put up at a wrong place that should have gone to the Astrology
section!
Here )

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Nandinee, NaLinee, Seethaa, Malathee cha malaabahaa |

Vishnupaadaajasampootha, Gangaa, thripathakaaminee ||Bhageerathee, Bhogavathee,

GangE cha YamunE chaiva GOthaavari, Saraswathi | Narmade, Sindhu, Kavari

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