The break of dawn during Mahalaya brings hundreds to the ghats of the Hooghly River, where waist-deep waters become a sacred stage for paying homage to departed ancestors. But why is the custom of Tarpan, these offerings to the deceased, so intricately woven into the fabric of Mahalaya’s rituals? In a land where the Goddess of Clay is invoked, where does the concept of appeasing ancestral spirits fit in?
The Auspicious Paradox
Many ponder, if Mahalaya is a day dedicated to remembering the departed, how can it be considered ‘shubh‘ or auspicious, as most Bengalis believe it to be? The word ‘Mahalaya‘ itself provides a clue, derived from ‘Maha‘ and ‘Alay,’ signifying the ‘great abode.’ It is believed that on this day, departed souls descend from the ‘Other World‘ to Earth, in anticipation of ‘Pinda,’ offerings of food and water, from their progenies. Content in the fulfillment of these rites, they shower their blessings upon their descendants, transforming Mahalaya into a day of profound auspiciousness.
An Inclusive Ritual
Pandit Satinath Pancha Teertha reveals that the offerings on Mahalaya extend beyond forefathers. The ritual encompasses Dev Tarpan, Rishi Tarpan, Divya-Pitri Tarpan, Ram Tarpan, and Lakshman Tarpan. It’s not just restricted to one’s own lineage; rather, tributes must be paid to those who died without a known family or unsung deaths. This inclusive practice invokes and offers prayers and sustenance to all departed souls, even strangers, strengthening the bond between the natural world and the Universe.
The Tale of Tarpan's Origins
The origins of the Tarpan ritual are veiled in various tales. According to the Ramayana, in the Treta Yug, Lord Rama performed Durga Puja before embarking on his mission to rescue Sita from Ravana’s clutches. Durga Puja, traditionally celebrated in spring, was observed at an alternate time by Lord Rama, termed ‘Akal-Bodhan’ or an untimely awakening. This deviation from tradition underscores the importance of offerings to all departed souls. Thus, Lord Rama performed Tarpan before initiating Durga Puja, a practice followed by Hindus on Mahalaya.
The Mahabharata Connection
In the Mahabharata, the story of Karna unravels the significance of the Tarpan ritual. After Karna’s death and his ascent to heaven, he was welcomed with gold and precious gems but no food. Puzzled, Karna queried Lord Indra about this omission. He was informed that, despite his renowned generosity and charity, he had neglected to offer food to his ancestors during his lifetime. Unaware of his lineage, Karna had omitted the Tarpan ritual. In response, Lord Indra granted him the opportunity to return to Earth for 16 days, a period known as Pitri-paksha, to rectify this omission before ascending to heaven.
In the heart of Mahalaya and the Tarpan rituals lies a profound tapestry of tradition, faith, and reverence for departed souls. These observances transcend mere remembrance; they symbolize the enduring connection between the living and the deceased, the earthly and the divine. It is a poignant reminder of the enduring significance of honouring our ancestors and ensuring their spiritual well-being.
