Today is the first day of Pitru Paksha, a two-week period dedicated to honoring the ancestors in many communities throughout the Indian diaspora. While specific traditions and rituals vary, the common intent is to remember and make offerings to honor and literally "nourish" the ancestors, to acknowledge their contributions and to offer gifts of gratitude … Continue reading Honoring the Ancestors: the Observance of Pitru Paksha
Tag: India
Happy Pongal!
Last weekend was Pongal, the annual harvest festival. It is similar to our Thanksgiving - they give thanks for the harvest and for the generosity of the earth. It also marks the transition between early winter and late winter (they recognize six discrete seasons here). It is the only Hindu festival that is observed on … Continue reading Happy Pongal!