Samvatsarikam (Annual Shradh) – Rituals, Significance & Online Puja
- Pandit Vishal Dwivedi
- Sep 30
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 2
Honoring our ancestors is an integral part of Hindu tradition. Among the various rituals performed for departed souls, Samvatsarikam (also known as Annual Shradh) holds a very special place. It is a sacred Vedic ceremony observed every year on the tithi (lunar day) of the ancestor’s death, ensuring their peace in the afterlife while blessing the family with prosperity, happiness, and harmony.
In this blog, let’s explore the meaning, rituals, significance, benefits, and how to perform Samvatsarikam (Annual Shradh).
What is Samvatsarikam (Annual Shradh)?
Samvatsarikam is the annual death anniversary ritual performed for one’s departed parents, grandparents, or ancestors. According to Hindu scriptures, after performing the first year of Shradh rituals (Masikam Shradh and Sapindikaran), every year thereafter, the family must perform Samvatsarikam on the same tithi when the person passed away.
It is believed that by doing this annual Shradh, the soul continues to receive peace, and the family remains free from Pitru Dosha and karmic obstacles.
This ritual is also called:
Varshikam (in South India)
Barsi or Punyatithi (in North India)
Why is Samvatsarikam Important?
The Garuda Purana and other ancient texts explain that performing annual Shradh is not only an act of remembrance but also a responsibility of the living family.
Here’s why Samvatsarikam matters:
Ensures peace and moksha for the departed soul.
Brings prosperity, good health, and harmony to the family.
Removes the negative effects of Pitru Dosha.
Acts as a bridge of love and gratitude between ancestors and descendants.
Brings spiritual upliftment and divine blessings.
When to Perform Samvatsarikam?
The Annual Shradh (Samvatsarikam) must be performed every year on the same tithi (lunar date) of the ancestor’s death, not the English calendar date.
Example: If someone passed away on Krishna Paksha Ashtami, the ritual must be performed every year on Krishna Paksha Ashtami of that month.
If the exact tithi is not clear, it can be performed during Pitru Paksha (Mahalaya Shradh).
Rituals of Samvatsarikam (Step-by-Step)
The rituals may vary slightly in North and South India, but the essence remains the same. Here’s a simple outline:
1. Purification and Sankalpam
The day begins with a bath and Sankalpam (a sacred vow) to perform the ritual for the specific ancestor.
2. Inviting a Priest (Purohit)
A qualified Brahmin priest guides the ceremony and chants Vedic mantras.
3. Pind Daan
Offering of Pindas (rice balls mixed with ghee, til, and honey) is made to the departed soul, symbolizing nourishment for the atma.
4. Tarpanam
Offering water mixed with black sesame seeds and Darbha grass, chanting the names of ancestors.
5. Homa / Havana (in some traditions)
A small fire ritual is performed for purification and blessings.
6. Brahmana Bhojanam
Feeding Brahmins with satvik food and giving dakshina, clothes, or donations is considered the most important part of Samvatsarikam.
7. Annadanam (Feeding the Poor)
In many families, food donation (Annadanam) is done in memory of the ancestor.
Benefits of Performing Samvatsarikam
Brings peace and liberation to the departed soul.
Protects the family from unexplained problems, obstacles, and health issues.
Strengthens family bonding and preserves traditions.
Attracts ancestral blessings for prosperity, children, and success.
Helps balance karmic debts (Pitru Rina).
Samvatsarikam in Different Regions
South India (Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Karnataka): It is called Samvatsarikam or Varshikam and performed with elaborate rituals including Brahmana Bhojanam and Daan.
North India (Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Delhi, etc.): It is often referred to as Barsi or Tithi Shradh.
In Kashi (Varanasi), Gaya, and Haridwar: Performing Annual Shradh is considered extremely auspicious and ensures moksha for the soul.
Online Samvatsarikam (Annual Shradh) Services
In today’s busy life, many families are unable to travel to holy places or perform elaborate rituals. With the help of online Shradh puja services, you can now:
Book Samvatsarikam puja in Varanasi, Gaya, Haridwar, Prayagraj, Rameswaram and other sacred places.
Have rituals performed by authentic priests in your name.
Receive blessings and puja prasad at your home.
MahaTarpan offers authentic Samvatsarikam Puja services with 100% transparency, experienced priests, and complete arrangements including Brahmin Bhojanam and Daan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Can Samvatsarikam be performed at home?
Yes, it can be performed at home with the help of a priest, but doing it at holy places like Varanasi or Gaya is considered more auspicious.
Q2. What if we miss the exact tithi of Samvatsarikam?
If missed, it can be performed during Pitru Paksha (Mahalaya Shradh) as per scriptures.
Q3. Who should perform Samvatsarikam?
The eldest son generally performs it, but if unavailable, other male family members or daughters can also do it with proper guidance.
Q4. What is the difference between Samvatsarikam and Pitru Paksha Shradh?
Samvatsarikam is performed annually on the exact tithi of death.
Pitru Paksha Shradh is a collective remembrance of all ancestors performed once a year during Mahalaya Paksha.
Conclusion
Samvatsarikam (Annual Shradh) is not just a ritual; it is an expression of gratitude, love, and duty towards our ancestors. By performing it with devotion, we not only ensure peace for our departed loved ones but also invite their blessings for a happy and prosperous life.
If you wish to perform Samvatsarikam (Annual Shradh) in Varanasi, Gaya, or Haridwar, you can book online puja services with MahaTarpan and get the complete rituals done authentically.