Pitru Tarpan for Indians Living Abroad

The word tarpan comes from the root word “trup” which means satisfying others. People, sages, the souls of ancestors, and the Gods will be satisfied by offering them water. This ritual is called tarpan. When those whose names were invoked during the performance of the tarpan have been satisfied, Hindus believe that they will bless with happiness and contentment those who offered water. The host of the tarpan will be satisfied in return. When the souls of ancestors are satisfied, they leave in peace. In their departure, they bless the host with success, wealth, brilliant intellect, glowing personality, and longevity, among others.

Pitru Tarpan is the ritualistic homage performed for the souls of departed ancestors. Water is offered to their souls or pitar. The souls of the ancestors expect from their descendants this offering of water or udak. The tarpan has to strictly follow some prescribed methods of performance. According to Hindu sacred tradition, the tarpan should be performed by a river. The one performing the ritual should be immersed in the flowing waters of the river till up to his belly button. Another prescribed style is for this person to sit on the riverbank while performing the ritual.