Significance Of The Rituals (Monthly And Annual)
By B S Ranganath M onthly and annual rituals are a core part of many families’ observances after losing a loved one. I’ve found them to be more than simple customs; they offer real comfort and a sense of structure during a period that can often feel unpredictable. The Hindu tradition, for example, outlines a specific calendar of rituals, including masikas and oonamasikas, to help families honor and remember the deceased. These ceremonies are meaningful, with each one serving a particular purpose as the year unfolds. The tradition of performing sixteen monthly (masika) and extra (oonamasika) ceremonies in the first year after a death stems from the Hindu lunar calendar. Unlike the standard twelve-month English calendar, these ceremonies are based on the tithi, or the lunar day, which means the actual dates can switch up each year. I have seen how these rituals guide families with a clear way to express grief, mark milestones in the mourning process, and keep memories alive. The routines...