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Shraaddh: A homage to God and our ancestors

The columnist is author of 32 books on Astrology, Numerology, Vaastu, Tarot, Dreams and Moles.

Shraaddh: A homage to God and our ancestors
P Khurrana

The days of Shraaddhs will begin from September 6 to 20, 2017. The word ‘Shraaddh’ has been derived from ‘Shraddha’ i.e. devotion and respect, for our forefathers and departed souls. In Hindu tradition, Shraaddhs are considered to be of much significance. Astrologically, if a horoscope is suffering from Pitra Dosha then the period is regarded to be an ideal occasion to mitigate Pitra Dosha.

On this day, food is given to Brahmins to the cow and the crow, which are believed to be messengers sent by God and food would be transferred to dead persons. During these days, new clothes and shopping is prohibited as a mark of respect to our ancestors.

In Srimad Bhagwat Gita, Lord Krishna has said that there is a karmic bond of life and death. If a person has been deprived to perform the ceremonies of ancestors then the native is likely to suffer in the present life in terms of career, business and general prosperity. According to Garuda Puran, debt of pitra is of far more significance than debt of God. Our ancestors bless us with fame, longevity, knowledge and courage when rituals are done with full devotion by their generation.

In the present era, many from the younger generation may feel the rituals of Shraaddh as non-scientific and irrational; they can donate food, shoes, books, clothes to needy children in orphanage, or charity.

Pitra Dosha: A karmic debt

Astrologically, when Sun is placed with Rahu, Saturn or Ketu in fifth or ninth house; Pitra Dosha come into existence. There are many more factors also to ascertain Pitra-Dosha. In such cases, native does not succeed in life despite having a lot of capabilities and best efforts.

According to Brahma Puran, native may face any one of following problems due to presence of Pitra Dosha:
1) Repeated miscarriage 
2) Prolonged illness
3) Abnormal children 
4) Disputes in family
5) No family bliss or delayed marriage
6) Debts 
7) Addiction of drinking/gambling

How to get rid of Pitra Dosha

Donate following items in charity or to Brahmin regularly during Shraaddh. Umbrella, clothes, food, utensils, milk, blanket, etc.
Offering of water to Sun/peepal tree is also apt.
Recite the mantra, Aum Tat Sat Brahma Tithu Udey Ashman Masay during these days for 108 times.

Vaastu tip

During Shraaddhs, clean the house with Ganga-jal i.e. holy water. The women in family should make food for Brahmins and give donations. After seeking their blessings, hang a picture of your forefather in South direction. Give respect to their commitments and pray for their soul rest in peace. The process will elevate your level of spirituality and activate good karma. You will overcome all obstacles of life.

Q: My son wants to do MBA,  abroad. He was born on May 6, 1994, at 12.18 pm. Please help.
— Neelam Rastogi

A: Your son is strong and full of energy to make breakthrough in foreign land. An excellent period is already in progress which will continue till July 27, 2019. He is suggested to wear cat’s eye in ring finger on Monday.

(The columnist is author of 32 books on Astrology, Numerology, Vaastu, Tarot, Dreams and Moles. He features regularly on various TV channels. You can email your queries at: pkhurrana@astroindia.com)

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