Step-by-Step Guide to Performing Pitra Shanti Puja at Home 

Pitra Shanti Puja is a significant Hindu ritual performed to honor and appease the departed ancestors, seeking their blessings for peace and prosperity in the family. This puja is believed to alleviate Pitra Dosha, which is said to cause various familial and personal issues due to the dissatisfaction of ancestors. Performing Pitra Shanti Puja at home can be a deeply spiritual and fulfilling experience. Here’s a comprehensive step-by-step guide to help you perform this sacred ritual at home. For a hassle-free arrangement, you can also book Pitra Shanti Puja from Kashi Archan.

Step 1: Preparation for Pitra Shanti Puja

Select an Auspicious Date

Choosing an auspicious date is crucial for performing Pitra Shanti Puja. Consult a knowledgeable astrologer to find the right date, especially during Pitru Paksha, the 15-day period dedicated to ancestral worship.

Gather the Required Items

You will need the following items for the puja:

• An idol or photograph of the deity presiding over the puja (Lord Vishnu or Lord Shiva)

• Photographs or belongings of your ancestors

• A kalash (metal pot) filled with water

• Fresh flowers and garlands

• Incense sticks, camphor, and diya (lamp)

• Fruits, sweets, and other food offerings

• White cloth or dhoti for men and sari for women

• Sacred thread (yajnopavita)

• Betel leaves and betel nuts

• Paan (betel leaves) with supari (betel nuts), cloves, cardamom, and dakshina (money offering)

Clean the Space

Ensure the space where the puja will be performed is clean and sanctified. You can sprinkle Ganga water or any other holy water to purify the surroundings.

Step 2: Setting Up the Puja Altar

• Place the idol or photograph of the deity on a clean platform.

• Arrange the photographs or belongings of your ancestors near the deity.

• Decorate the altar with flowers and garlands.

• Keep the kalash filled with water on the altar and place a coconut on top of it.

• Light the diya (lamp) and incense sticks.

Step 3: Performing the Pitra Shanti Puja

Sankalpa (Taking the Vow)

Sit in front of the altar with your family members. Hold some water in your right hand and take the sankalpa (vow) to perform the puja with devotion and sincerity, seeking blessings from your ancestors.

Invocation

Invoke Lord Ganesha to remove any obstacles and seek his blessings for a smooth puja. Chant the Ganesh mantra:

Om Gan Ganapataye Namah 

Sacred Thread Ceremony

Men should change their sacred thread (yajnopavita) from the left shoulder to the right shoulder while performing the tarpan.

Mantra Chanting and Aarti

Chant mantras and hymns dedicated to the ancestors and the deity. Perform the aarti with camphor or ghee diya, waving it in a circular motion in front of the altar.

Step 4: Conclusion of the Puja

Prasad Distribution

Offer the prasad (consecrated food) to the family members and share it with others as a blessing from the ancestors.

Dakshina (Offering)

Give dakshina (money offering) to the priest if one is present, or donate it to a temple or a needy person.

Clean Up

Clean the puja area and dispose of the offerings respectfully, preferably in running water or under a sacred tree.

Final Thoughts

Performing Pitra Shanti Puja at home is a profound way to honor your ancestors and seek their blessings for the family's well-being. It strengthens the bond with your forebears and brings peace and prosperity. For a seamless and spiritually enriching experience, consider booking Pitra Shanti Puja from Kashi Archan. Their expert guidance ensures that the rituals are performed correctly, invoking the blessings of your ancestors effectively.