Tarpana is a significant Hindu ritual performed to honor and appease one's ancestors. Derived from the Sanskrit word 'Trup' meaning 'to satisfy', Tarpana involves offering water, sesame seeds, and other sacred items while chanting specific mantras. This ritual is usually performed on special occasions such as Amavasya (New Moon day), during Shraddha (annual ancestral rites), and during Pitru Paksha, a 15-day period dedicated to honoring ancestors. The ritual is believed to help ancestors attain peace and liberation (moksha) in the afterlife. It also strengthens the bond between the living and their departed loved ones, fostering a sense of continuity and reverence within the family lineage. By performing Tarpana, individuals express their gratitude and seek blessings from their forebears, ensuring the well-being and prosperity of their descendants.
