Pitru Paksha is considered a time for remembering ancestors, offering prayers and expressing gratitude towards them. During this time, there is a tradition of offering water, Shraddha, Pind Daan and doing charity for the ancestors. In religious belief, water is considered the main medium for the satisfaction of ancestors. In the same spirit, the tradition of offering water under some sacred trees during Pitru Paksha is also told.
offer water under the peepal tree
According to religious belief, along with the gods, ancestors are also considered to reside in Peepal. Therefore, after morning bath, it is considered auspicious to remember the ancestors by offering water to the Peepal root. While offering water, one can pray for the peace and contentment of one’s ancestors by taking their names.
Remember ancestors under the banyan tree
Banyan tree is also considered very sacred in Sanatan tradition. There is a religious belief that by offering water under the banyan tree, remembering the ancestors and circling with devotion, one gets the blessings of the ancestors.
offer water to the vine tree
Bael tree is considered dear to Lord Shiva. Belpatra has special importance in Shiva worship. During Pitru Paksha, there is a religious tradition of offering water to the roots of the Bael tree and praying to Lord Shiva for the peace of the ancestors.
It is auspicious to give water near Tulsi.
Tulsi is considered to be a very sacred plant related to Lord Vishnu. According to religious belief, ancestors also get satisfaction by worshiping Lord Vishnu and worshiping Tulsi. During Pitru Paksha, ancestors can be remembered by offering water to the Tulsi plant with reverence. Traditions linking Tulsi with ancestral deeds are also prevalent.
Pray under the Shami tree also
Shami tree is considered a sacred tree in Sanatan Dharma. In some areas, the tradition of offering water under the Shami tree and praying for the peace of the ancestors during Pitru Paksha is also said. Shami is also included among the sacred plants planted during Pitru Paksha.
Have faith while offering water
While giving water to these trees during Pitru Paksha, the feeling of reverence and remembrance is considered to be the most important. While offering water, remember your ancestors in your mind and pray for their peace. In classical Tarpan, along with water, sesame seeds and Kush are also given special importance and the ritualistic Pitru Tarpan is done facing the south direction.