By Paras Ramoutar
TRINIDAD, October 6, 2004: From September 28 to October 13, Hindus are observing the observance of Pitra Paksh, in memory of their departed ones. This is an annual act, and it has deep spiritual meaning and significance. Pundit Ramesh Tiwari, spiritual leader of the Edinburgh Hindu Temple, explained the rituals associated with the observance of Pitra Paksh. “These are called Sraddha Karma–the offering of water on kusa grass, shaving of the head and the bhandra (feast). These rituals must be performed by a paternal relative in honor of the deceased,” he said. Homes are properly cleaned and there is no form of merriment or use of alcoholic drinks or meats. It is a period for deep spiritual austerity. “Hindus believe that the soul cannot achieve the status of Pitra until the Sraddha rites have ben performed, otherwise the soul becomes a ghost. Pitra puja is performed during Pitra Paksha period in the Hindu calendar year on behalf of the deceased. This is like a requiem mass for the repose of the soul,” Pundit Tiwari added. He said the core of Hinduism is reincarnation, commonly referred to as life after death. Quoting from the Bhagvad Gita, Pundit Tiwari noted that for the soul there is never birth nor death, nor having once been does he cease to exist. “He is unborn, eternal, ever-existing, undying and primeval, and he is not slain when the body is slain.” Karma and reincarnation are inter-related. Pundit Tiwari added. “Good actions promote the unfolding of the individual’s spiritual progress, while bad actions thwart the fulfilment of the spirit’s potentialities. Reincarnation gives time for the spirit to become expert in corrective action so that ultimately it may fulfill the Divine Plan,” he said. Pitra Paksh is a strong reminder for mankind to turn to God, and by so doing, will not have to be reborn and face the tragedies, sufferings and problems of life.