Shradha puja is incomplete without these flowers, definitely include them in Pitra Tarpan

In the great tradition of Sanatan Dharma, Shraddha Paksha is considered very sacred and virtuous. This period starts every year from Bhadrapada Purnima and continues till Amavasya, which is also called Pitru Paksha or Mahalaya Paksha. This time is a living symbol of reverence, gratitude and remembrance towards our roots and our ancestors.

It is said in the scriptures—

Rinanubandhen Putrotpatti

That is, every living being is born from the bond of deep relations and debts with its ancestors. That is why through Shraddha Karma, we not only bring peace to the soul of the ancestors but also repay some part of those debts with our lives.

Special Place of Flowers in Shraddha

Flowers also have special importance in Shraddha Karma along with food, water, kusha and sesame. Flowers are a symbol of emotion and sattvikta. Different flowers are used in every puja, but only some special flowers are prescribed for Shraddha. It is clearly stated in the scriptures that if the right flowers are not used in Tarpan, then the Shraddha is considered incomplete. Therefore, the flowers should be selected very carefully in this holy ritual.

Kash Flowers

Kash (Kusha) flowers are considered to be of the greatest importance in Shraddha rituals. There is a deep spiritual mystery hidden behind this white flower. According to mythological belief, Kusha originated from the hair of Lord Vishnu. That is why Kush and the flowers associated with it are considered very sacred and godlike. The Kash flower is also a symbol of the same Satvik energy. When autumn arrives and white Kash flowers start blooming on the earth, it is considered a sign of the arrival of gods and ancestors. It is believed that by offering Kash flowers in Shraddha, the ancestors become happy and bless the descendants with long life, happiness, prosperity and happiness of progeny.

Other Flowers That can be used

If Kash flowers are not available for some reason, then some alternatives have also been mentioned in the scriptures. White flowers like Malti, Juhi, Champa can be used in these. The peace and purity of these flowers pleases the ancestors. White flowers are a symbol of Satvikta and pure feelings. By using them in Shraddha Karma, the puja is considered complete.

Flowers Prohibited in Shraddha

Just as some flowers are considered mandatory, similarly the use of some flowers is completely prohibited in Shraddha Karma. In which offering Kadamba, Karveer, Kevada, Maulsiri, Belpatra, Tulsi, Bhringraj and all flowers of red and black color is prohibited. The scriptures say that the strong smell and tamasic nature of these flowers displeases the ancestors. By offering such flowers, the ancestors do not take food and water and return unsatisfied. This has a negative impact on the family and obstacles in life increase.

The Secret of Flowers and Feelings

Flowers are the medium of human emotion and devotion. When we offer white Kash flowers to the ancestors with pure feelings, it becomes the carrier of devotion and gratitude of our mind. That is why in Shraddha Karma, not only flowers but also faith is the basis. The scriptures have also said—

Shraddhaya Deyam, Ashradhaya Adeyam

That is, a donation or offering made without faith is useless.

Shraddha and Kash Flowers

Kash flowers are not only a means of completion of Shraddha Karma but also a spiritual bridge between ancestors and descendants. When these flowers are offered in tarpan, it is as if our feelings reach our ancestors like white waves. When the flowers of Kaash blooming on the earth are used in Shraddha, they become our humble prayers and gratitude towards our ancestors. This is the reason why Shraddha is considered incomplete without them in the scriptures.

Shraddha Paksha is a divine opportunity to express love, respect and gratitude towards our ancestors. The tarpan and offering done during this period not only provides peace to the ancestors but also has a beneficial effect on the lives of the descendants. The use of Kaash flowers is an essential part of this ritual because they are a symbol of purity, sattvikta and the grace of ancestors. Also, the flowers that have been declared prohibited should not be used, even by mistake.

In this Shraddha Paksha, let us all offer flowers to our ancestors with reverence and pray to them to always illuminate our lives with their blessings.