How Many Days After Death is Asthi Visarjan Performed?
Asthi Visarjan, the sacred ritual of immersing the ashes (asthi) of a deceased person in a holy river, is an important part of Hindu funeral rites. It is believed to liberate the soul from the physical world and help it attain peace and moksha (liberation). One common question among families is: How many days after death should Asthi Visarjan be done?
Ideal Time for Asthi Visarjan
According to Hindu scriptures and traditional beliefs, Asthi Visarjan should ideally be performed within 10 to 13 days after the death of a person. This period corresponds with the Antyesti rituals, which include cremation and the final rites.
- On the day of cremation, the family collects the ashes and remains (asthi) from the cremation site.
- These ashes are then preserved in an urn until they are taken for immersion.
In most traditions, the 10th, 11th, or 13th day is considered auspicious for performing Asthi Visarjan, depending on the family’s customs, the region, and guidance from the family priest.
Importance of Timely Immersion
The timely immersion of ashes holds spiritual importance. It is believed that the sooner the ashes are immersed in a holy river like the Ganga, the sooner the soul finds peace and begins its journey toward liberation. Delaying this ritual may create obstacles in the soul’s onward journey, according to traditional beliefs.
Where to Perform Asthi Visarjan?
Some of the most sacred places for Asthi Visarjan in India include:
- Kashi (Varanasi)
- Haridwar
- Prayagraj
- Gaya
- Rameshwaram
Among these, Kashi (Varanasi) is considered one of the holiest cities for Asthi Visarjan, as it is believed that performing rituals here grants moksha.
Conclusion
To honor the departed soul and follow Hindu traditions, Asthi Visarjan should ideally be performed within 10–13 days after death. However, if the family is waiting for all members to arrive or needs more time, the ritual can be done later with proper guidance from a pandit.
If you are looking for assistance with Asthi Visarjan Puja in Kashi, our team of experienced pandits can help organize everything from ashes collection to ritual completion with authenticity and devotion.
