Garuda Purana – Chapter 3: Funeral Rites for the Deceased

Rituals for the Departed

After the soul's journey through the terrifying paths of Yamaloka, Lord Vishnu said to Garuda, "O Garuda! Now I shall tell you about the rituals performed for the departed. These rituals are extremely important for granting peace and liberation to the soul. Only through their proper completion does the soul reside comfortably in Pitriloka."

The Significance of Shraddha

In a serene forest on the banks of the Ganges, Lord Vishnu began to explain the significance of Shraddha to Garuda. The golden rays of the sun filtered through the trees, touching the earth, and the chirping of birds sanctified the atmosphere. Lord Vishnu looked at Garuda and said, "Shraddha is a symbol of reverence and respect towards the ancestors. It is a yajna performed by the living to satisfy the departed. The food and water offered in Shraddha provide strength to the ancestors, and they are satisfied." Garuda listened attentively, his mind eager to comprehend the glory of Shraddha.

Garuda asked, "O Lord, why is Shraddha so important? What happens if someone does not perform Shraddha?" Lord Vishnu replied, "Those who do not perform Shraddha, their ancestors remain displeased, and they do not receive their blessings. Performing Shraddha leads to the growth of lineage, brings happiness and prosperity, and liberates one from Pitri Dosha (ancestral curse)."

The Method of Pind Daan

Lord Vishnu further described the method of Pind Daan. He said, "Pind Daan should be performed on the banks of the Ganges, Yamuna, or any other holy river. Pinds are made from barley flour, sesame seeds, rice, and ghee. These pinds are offered to the ancestors with mantras. While performing Pind Daan, the name and gotra of the ancestors must be mentioned. This lets them know that the Pind Daan is being performed for them." Lord Vishnu also stated that complete faith and devotion should be maintained while performing Pind Daan. There should be no doubt or negative thoughts in the mind.

"While performing Pind Daan, the mantra 'Om Pitrubhyo Namah' should be chanted. This mantra grants peace to the ancestors and leads them towards moksha (liberation)," said Lord Vishnu. Garuda asked, "O Lord, what should a person do if they do not have the money to perform Pind Daan?" Lord Vishnu replied, "That person can offer libations with water and sesame seeds with devotion. The sentiment is important, not the wealth."

The Fruits of Rituals

Describing the fruits of Shraddha and Pind Daan, Lord Vishnu said, "Those who perform Shraddha and Pind Daan according to the prescribed method, their ancestors are pleased and bless them. They attain happiness, peace, and prosperity in life. All their sufferings are removed, and they ultimately attain moksha." He also said that Shraddha and Pind Daan are not just for men but are also important for women. Women can also perform Shraddha and Pind Daan for their ancestors. In this way, Lord Vishnu explained to Garuda the importance of rituals performed for the departed. Garuda's heart was filled with gratitude. He now understood that the welfare of the soul is possible even after death, if the living perform rituals with faith and devotion. This knowledge leads him to the next chapter, which will discuss rebirth and karma.