Tila Homa, Pitṛu Pūja - Homage for Ancestors and Departed Souls

Br. Rāmānandāmṛta Chaitanya leads a special Tila Homa and step-by-step guided pūja (tarpaṇam) for paying homage to ancestors and departed souls.

Pitṛu pakṣa, as per the Indian tradition, is the fortnight of the lunar cycle leading to the new moon day, during the month of Bhadrapada. Rites and rituals dedicated to departed souls are performed during this period, expressing gratitude and respect for their contribution. The period ends with the new moon day, referred to as Mahalaya Ammavasya.

The event begins with Br. Rāmānandāmṛta Chaitanya performing the Tila Homa (for peace of one's ancestors and seeking their blessings) at Wednesday, October 2nd, 6am, followed by guided pūja for individuals to perform, paying obeisance to the departed souls and ancestors. You can participate in the pūja either in-person, or remotely via YouTube.

Click here for more information.

Registration

Tila Homa, Pitṛu Pūja ($190) - Register here

Pitṛu Pūja alone (donation of any amount) - Donate here

For In-Person attendees

Venue: M.A. Center DC, 9109 Harrington Drive, Potomac, MD 20854
Items for the puja will be provided for you.
We encourage you to arrive by 5:45 AM to check-in and be seated even if you are only attending the Pitru Puja.
Prasad will be served after Puja.

For Online Attendees

You can join the event on M.A. Center East Coast YouTube page.
Items to be secured to perform the puja at your end (step by step guidance will be provided)

• Small plates (one for placing the items and the other for performing puja)
• Bowl with water
• Spoon
• Small lamp or candle
• Small bowl with akshata (rice grains mixed with turmeric powder)
• Small bowl with black sesame seeds
• Pinda - a ball made out of cooked rice (big enough to fit into our palm)
• Flower petals
• Darbha Grass (if available)
• Sandalwood paste (if available)
• Camphor and a container (to perform arati), if available

Please do not worry if any of the items are unavailable.