Freedom from debt

Human life is like a continuously flowing river, where the present rests upon the foundation laid by the past. We can live our lives today because of the blood, values, hard work, devotion and sacrifices of our ancestors who came before us. Pitru Paksh is an occasion to remember them and express our respect and gratitude.

When we remember our ancestors, we become aware that our achievements, success and knowledge are not entirely the result of our own efforts. In many ways, they also carry the unseen contribution of those ancestors who are no longer physically present.

When a person offers food, water or clothing in the name of his ancestors, he is not merely giving a material object to someone else. More deeply, he breaks the narrow boundaries of selfishness within and opens his heart.


When a soul leaves the physical world and moves into the subtle realm, good intentions, prayers, sacred chants and positive spiritual energy offered by loved ones are traditionally believed to support its journey. Tarpan is, therefore, regarded as an expression of remembrance and a prayer for the peace and satisfaction of departed souls.

Pitru Paksh also reminds us of our close relationship with nature and other forms of life. During this period, there is a tradition of feeding crows, cows, dogs, ants and other living beings. This practice reflects the deeper spiritual understanding that the same divine consciousness exists throughout creation.