Subhechcha Ganguly 
Photo Courtesy: M V Vishwas and Family
Remembering the souls who graced our lives through a ritual that blends our progressive thinking with rustic traditions that have stood the test of time. Under overcast skies and cosy homes built on the blessings of ancestors, devotees revere their ancestors with offerings of dal, rice, and flowers; ably enlightened with an oil lamp, which invites the departed soul to visit their homes and break into meals. This divine actor balances two puritan realms; ours and those unknown to us!
The Balitharpanam is observed at the beach side by men and women who adorn the classical white mundu and Kerala Onnara Saree; place themselves amongst the sea of humanity and follow the lead of the head priests, chanting prayers and singing hymns in glory of the Lord and the spirit of their ancestors.
The emergence of the full moon on this day (in the month of Karkidakam) propitiates the beloved souls of the deceased and brings peace to the minds of those paying their respects.
Consider this a way to awaken a portal that brings people in realm-defying and touching distance to their beloved ones, who reside in their hearts and provide the righteous path for generations to come!
~ In Holy Remembrance,
AH
