Honouring Our Ancestors on Deepavali Eve: A Sacred Tradition of Remembrance and Connection
As the vibrant festival of Deepavali approaches, our family gathers to observe a deeply sacred and timeless tradition: paying homage to our ancestors. This ritual, steeped in reverence and love, serves as a bridge between the past and the present, connecting us to the roots of our identity and the legacy of those who came before us.
On the eve of Deepavali, we visit the resting places of our ancestors, a pilgrimage of remembrance and gratitude. With care and devotion, we clear away overgrown grass, tidy the surroundings, and adorn their graves with fresh flowers. Each action is performed with mindfulness, as though we are tending to their presence itself. Offerings of food, traditional Deepavali sweets, and drinks are laid out with love, accompanied by a ceremonial libation. The air is filled with the sacred scents of incense, sambrani (benzoin), and camphor, their fragrant smoke rising like prayers to the heavens.
Today, as we stood in prayer, a gentle rain began to fall, a serendipitous and deeply moving moment. It felt as though the heavens were acknowledging our devotion, blessing us with their presence. The raindrops seemed to carry the whispers of our ancestors, reminding us of their enduring love and guidance.
In these challenging times, as the world grapples with the Covid-19 pandemic, the light of Deepavali holds profound significance. It symbolises hope, resilience, and the triumph of good over evil. May this divine light illuminate our paths, guiding us towards healing, unity, and a brighter future.
Tonight, within the warmth of our home, we will perform “padayal,” a special ritual dedicated to our ancestors. This ancient practice is more than a tradition; it is a spiritual act of remembrance and connection. It is believed that padayal awakens the profound memories of our ancestors, which are embedded within our very DNA (kundalini). These memories carry their virtues, their wisdom, and their strength, reminding us of who we are and where we come from.
During padayal, our family gathers in unity, creating a sacred space filled with love and reverence. We chant prayers together, our voices blending in harmony, as we share the offerings prepared with care. This act of sharing is not just symbolic; it fosters a deep sense of connection, not only with our ancestors but also with one another.
As we focus our thoughts on our ancestors, we reflect on their lives, their kindness, their resilience, their wisdom, and the sacrifices they made for future generations. To honour their memory, we light an oil lamp, symbolising the eternal light they have passed down to us. This flickering flame represents the collective presence of our ancestors, a guiding light that continues to inspire and protect us.
The padayal ritual is traditionally performed after 7:00 PM, when the noise of the day subsides, and the world grows quiet. This tranquil atmosphere allows us to turn inward, creating a space for deep reflection, gratitude, and spiritual connection.
“SHRIM HRIM KLIM HRIM”
Mantra
A Mantra for Ancestral Connection and Inner Strength:
To deepen your connection with your ancestors and harmonise your biorhythm, begin by chanting the mantra “SHRIM HRIM KLIM HRIM“ for three minutes. This mantra carries a powerful vibration, aligning your energy with the divine. Follow this with nine deep, mindful breaths, inhaling and exhaling slowly, allowing your body and mind to settle into a state of calm.
Next, focus on the image of one or more of your ancestors, no more than nine for optimal concentration. Visualise their presence vividly, feeling their energy and wisdom surrounding you. As you chant the mantra again, “SHRIM HRIM KLIM HRIM,” allow yourself to be immersed in their love and guidance. Chant for a minimum of nine minutes, but for a more profound experience, extend the practice to 18 or 27 minutes.
This sacred invocation is not merely a ritual; it is a transformative experience. It connects you with the strength, wisdom, and resilience of your ancestors, empowering you to navigate life’s challenges with grace and fortitude. Through this practice, you honour their legacy and carry their light forward, ensuring that their virtues continue to shine through you.
As we celebrate Deepavali, let us remember that this festival is not only about external lights and festivities but also about the inner light that guides us. It is a time to honour our roots, to express gratitude for the blessings we have received, and to seek the wisdom of those who walked before us.
May the divine light of Deepavali illuminate your path, bringing peace, prosperity, and spiritual awakening. May the strength and wisdom of your ancestors be with you, guiding you through every challenge and blessing you with their eternal love.
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