Agni: bridge between earth and ancestral
Pitra Paksha 2025: The time of Pitrupaksha is believed to be when the distance between the Earth and Pitriloka decreases. During this time, ancestors come to bless their descendants. But there is a secret that everyone wants to know, why does Agni Dev have such an important role in Shraddha Karma? After all, why is it said that Agnidev wakes up in Pitrupaksha and through them, Tarpan reaches the ancestors?
Agni: bridge between earth and ancestral
In Garuda Purana and theology, Agni Dev is described as a bridge between the gods and ancestors. Whenever sesame, water and grain are offered in Shraddha or Havan, the fire directly leads it to Pitriloka. This is the reason that Shraddha is not incomplete without Tarpan or Pindadan, but also incomplete without havan and sacrifice.
Why does Agnidev stay awake?
There is a mythological belief that Agni Dev is especially awake in Pitrupaksha. This simply means that at this time the sacrifice in the fire reaches the ancestors immediately. That is why the importance of Havan and Agnihotra in Pitrupaksha increases manifold. This is not just religious rituals, but is an exchange of spiritual energy.
Scientific secret of fire in Shraddha
Along with religion, science also confirms this belief. When havan is performed during Shraddhakarma, the smoke that arises from the fire purifies the atmosphere. At the same time, the energy emanating from the sacrifice of sesame and ghee reduces mental stress. This is the reason that the karma of Shraddha purifies not only the ancestors, but also purifies the health and environment of the family.
What happens if fire is not worshiped?
According to the scriptures, if the call and worship of Agni Dev is not performed in Shraddhakarma, then the tarpan remains incomplete. It has been said that the ancestors become dissatisfied and it affects the happiness and prosperity of the house. That is why it is considered mandatory to have Agnihotra and Ahuti in every Shraddha Karma.