In Bengal, Tarpan is a highly religious rite that is done to respect and pay respect to ancestors. It is primarily observed during Pitru Paksha, the fortnight devoted to deceased souls, and has its roots in Hindu tradition.
The Sanskrit root trup, which means to satisfy, is where the word “Tarpan” originates. In this ritual, devotees offer water, sesame seeds, and occasionally rice with devotion in order to symbolically quench their ancestors’ thirst.
At the banks of rivers like the Ganga or other holy bodies of water, men in Bengal—typically the oldest sons—perform Tarpan. Under the direction of priests, they recite mantras while standing in waist-deep water while wearing traditional white dhotis.
As they remember the names of their ancestors, they pour water and sesame with folded hands, expressing gratitude and asking for blessings. The idea is that Tarpan comforts the spirits of the dead, protects them for the family, and fortifies the ties that bind generations.
Beyond religious obligation, it embodies the Bengali culture of respect for ancestry and life’s continuity. In Bengali homes, the ritual still has great cultural and spiritual significance despite modern living.
The belief is that Tarpan ensures the family’s protection, brings peace to the deceased, and fortifies the ties that bind generations. Beyond religious obligation, it embodies the Bengali culture of respect for ancestry and life’s continuity.
In Bengali homes, the ritual still has great cultural and spiritual significance despite modern living.
Photography© by Neha Sharma.
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it’s really Amazing .. Detailed write-up about the Tarpan with wonderful clicks…
Great contemporary document for future generations..
Even in Tamilnadu we do this and it’s called ” Tarpanam”(தர்ப்பணம்)