Living In the Shadows of Our Ancestors

Last fortnight was the Pitra Paksha, an annual 15-day period in Hindu tradition observed to honour and pay homage to ancestors. During this period, Hindus perform various rituals such as Tarpan (offering water), Shradh (ceremonial offerings of food), and other acts of devotion to appease the souls of deceased ancestors. It is believed that these rituals help the ancestors attain peace and liberation.
One is thought to have three primary debts: a debt to the gods, a debt to the guru, and an obligation to the forebearers. Repaying these debts with the most extraordinary deference and humility is required. The ruler of death, Yama Raja, permits everyone who passes away from this life to return to earth and collect offerings from their next generations during this time, known as Pitra Paksha. Shradhs appear to result from the Karma hypothesis, which upholds and sustains relationships for all eternity. As King Mahabali journeys to Kerala during the Onam festivities, the shradhs create a bridge between the living and the dead.
Pitra Paksha is a powerful reminder of the belief in the continuity of life. It reflects the importance of honouring one’s lineage and serves as a time for individuals to reflect on their family history and express gratitude towards their ancestors. This belief in the eternal cycle of life and death can bring a sense of reassurance and comfort. The Chinese, Japanese, and certain other Asian people show gratitude and reverence for their ancestors similarly. This time, I invited five competent priests and performed the ceremony. Through them, I worshipped my paternal and maternal bloodlines, ancestors, all the gods, and Shri Vishnu’s footmark in Gaya. It was a genuinely satisfying experience.
Our ancestors ‘live on’ within us through DNA, which is not merely an idea but a fact. Each person inherits genetic material from their parents, which contains DNA passed down through generations. This genetic information influences everybody, including physical traits, predispositions to specific health conditions, and even some behavioural tendencies. In this sense, every person carries a part of their ancestors’ biological legacy within their cells.
Emerging science in epigenetics suggests that environmental factors can influence gene expression and potentially be passed down through generations. This adds another layer to understanding how ancestors may impact their descendants. Understanding our genetic connection to our ancestors can foster a sense of belonging and identity. It reminds individuals of their heritage and the contributions of those who came before them, reinforcing that our lives are intertwined with those of our forebearers.
Anatomically modern humans (Homo sapiens) are believed to have emerged around 300,000 years ago. An average generation length of 30 years would suggest that approximately 10,000 generations of humans have existed. Each of these generations has played a role in shaping human experience, culture, and evolution.
As humanity spread across the planet, diverse cultures and histories emerged. Each group may have its generational perspective shaped by local customs, challenges, and adaptations.
People have always wandered the planet, and many have migrated from their home country to a new one in the last few centuries. They have experienced the transition, often facing challenges such as language barriers, cultural differences, and adapting to new social systems.
The children of migrants usually grow up with a blend of their parents and the host country’s culture. They often face unique challenges, including navigating their identity between two cultures. The grandchildren of the original migrants are typically even more integrated into the host society. However, while younger generations may adopt the societal norms of the host country, they may still engage with their ancestral culture through family traditions, festivals, and community gatherings.
We live in the ‘millennial’ or ‘digital’ generation, with newer generations emerging as societal norms and technologies evolve. Millennials have grown up during a time of increasing globalisation. They have greater access to information, cultures, and ideas worldwide than previous generations, primarily due to the internet and social media. With the rise of digital technology, millennials are more likely to engage with and embrace diverse cultures. Exposure to international music, films, cuisine, and art is more prevalent, fostering a global perspective.
Many millennials prioritise building diverse social networks. They often connect with people from various backgrounds, ethnicities, and cultures, leading to a more cosmopolitan social experience. Millennials support values promoting inclusivity, diversity, and social justice. This mindset often stems from a cosmopolitan view emphasising the importance of understanding and respecting global issues.
Despite these trends, it is important to note that not all millennials are cosmopolitan. Geographic location, socio-economic status, personal preferences, and individual experiences can shape one’s worldview. Some millennials may have less exposure to global cultures due to economic, social, or geographical constraints. Children of migrated populations often face significant challenges, such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to education and social services. They are vulnerable to radicalisation, leading to participation in violent extremist groups.
Many people turn to their ancestry to anchor their sense of self in a globalised world where identity can feel fragmented. Understanding where one comes from can help individuals navigate questions of identity, particularly in multicultural contexts. The history of one’s ancestors often reflects broader societal changes, such as migration, war, social movements, and technological advances. Understanding this history allows individuals to reflect on the progress and issues in society today.
So, what do ancestors mean to a modern man? Modern individuals may find value in tracing their genealogy, learning about the lives and struggles of their forebearers, and recognising the legacies they have inherited, which can influence their sense of self. Honouring one’s ancestors through rituals and practices can provide comfort, foster a connection to something larger than oneself, and receive support from those who came before.
Without a doubt, we feel a solid connection to our ancestral roots, whether through cultural traditions, values, or beliefs. This connection shapes personal identity, influencing how individuals perceive themselves and interact with the world. The world is complex, and life is only sometimes a pleasant journey. Living in the shadow gives a sense of higher order protection like a tree, continuing influence and setting expectations based on ancestral history. By acknowledging the impact of ancestors, individuals can actively embrace, modify, or break free from specific patterns or practices to align more closely with their values and aspirations. Engaging with this ancestral connection can enrich modern life, fostering a sense of continuity, resilience, and belonging.
I performed the Shradh ritual this year, having ignored it earlier. Undoubtedly, the moment you call out the names of your ancestors – from the bloodlines of your father and mother, you have goosebumps. The rest of the ceremony may be semantics, but the connection of every living one with oneself is real and phenomenal and cannot be ignored. If we count back to four grandparents, their eight parents, then their sixteen parents, and so on, for me to be born, 12 earlier generations, 4094 ancestors were involved. How many struggles, victories, and defeats they would have lived through so that I am living today? I can always pretend to be ignorant, but could I ever be without them?
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For me, honouring one’s ancestors is an integral part of my daily life. To do so is to acknowledge and value the work and sacrifices of those who came before us. This practice helps us remember them, learn about our heritage, and find our position in the world.
There are many different ways to honour the dead, from casual thoughts and prayers to more formal rituals and ceremonies. The fundamental idea is the same regardless of the approach: to pay tribute to the departed, reflect on their lives, and learn from their lessons. Thank you for bringing this up.
I think the point is not merely ancestors but the entire past on which we exist. The Point of Honouring the Past? There are many reasons to honour the dead. In the first place, it’s a means to honour the past and the contributions our ancestors made. By keeping their memory alive, we show our appreciation for all that they did for us and for society.
Second, it enlightens us about our ancestry and family history. Who we are and how we see the world are both impacted by the beliefs, practices, and experiences of our forebears. Paying homage to our ancestors helps us comprehend our heritage and identity. Finally, it helps people feel more connected and consistent. A sense of community and belonging is fostered through memorialising ancestors, which helps to connect the past, present, and future.
Dear Sir, A very timely and interesting article. The blog connects the ritual and our distance very nicely. That one sentence, OUR ANCESTORS LIVE ON THROUGH THE DNA, sums it up aptly and convincingly. Irrespective of caste or religion, almost everybody performs this ritual of remembering their ancestors in one way or the other. Call it with different names. This ritual in pitrupaksha will give you the satisfaction of recognising the lineage of both sides of your mother and father and conveying your thanks to your ancestors for your existence and well-being. I firmly believe that their blessing is helping us live our lives decently with the values and ethics passed on through DNA. Thank you once again for an enlightening article, sir.
The impact of memorialising ancestors can’t be ignored. Individuals and communities benefit greatly by memorialising their forebears. It promotes a sense of self and belonging, enhances family and community ties, and offers comfort and solace. Memorialising our ancestors helps us comprehend our roots and heritage. It provides us a feeling of self and makes us feel more connected to our family and community. Remembering our forebears helps us comprehend who we are and where we came from.
Memorialising ancestors also promotes familial and communal ties. Commemorative events and rituals draw people together, instilling a sense of belonging. They allow people to share memories, express their emotions, and encourage one another. Finally, honouring ancestors can bring peace and solace. Remembering our ancestors can help us cope with loss and sadness while also providing a feeling of continuity and hope. It serves as a reminder that we are all part of a greater story, and that our ancestors’ lives and experiences live on through us.
Wonderfully written. Reminds me of my childhood spent in Gaya, the place known for the annual Pitrapaksha Mela.
You have rightly flagged the fact that DNA is the link between our generations. What is clearly emerging today is the importance of culture which is impacted by the place we live, which in real terms mean the kind of food we eat, and this finally translates in means the kind of bacteria that we take during our food or during an interaction with environment. It is very clear that the while the DNA that we have inherited will remain the same in our generations and offsprings, but the expression of our DNA has a lot to do with the bacteria that lives in our body which is several times more DNA than our own DNA. This is where the role of epigenetics comes in more precisely the importance of culture and environment on our overall well-being.
Captivating article on heritage and contributions of the forebearers, Prof Tiwariji !
Your reflections on the connectivity with ancestors are splendid !!
Thank you for sharing your personal experience, Sir. It is comforting to consider that a part of our ancestors lives with us. Their experiences, struggles, and wisdom continue to shape us profoundly. Rituals like shradh remind us of our deep connections with those who came before us.
As we transitioned from nomadic lifestyles to settled societies, we created systems, standards, and rituals to preserve this connection to our roots. Your ceremony and reflections offer a powerful reminder of the continuity between the past and the present and the vital importance of remembering where we come from as we navigate the complexities of modern life.
Dear Sir, Greetings! This reflection on Pitra Paksha is both profound and moving. It beautifully captures the essence of honouring one’s ancestors, not just as a religious ritual but as a meaningful connection that spans generations. The exploration of ancestral lineage through spiritual practices and the scientific lens of genetics and epigenetics truly resonates in our modern context.
The idea that we carry a part of our ancestors within us, not just spiritually but biologically, is a powerful reminder of the continuity of life. Comparing this practice with other cultures, like the Chinese and Japanese, adds depth to its universality. It reminds us that looking back to our roots can offer solace and a deeper understanding of who we are in our ever-globalising world.
Thank you for sharing such a comprehensive and heartfelt account of your experience with Shradh and the significance of connecting with our ancestral past. Warm regards.
Dear Sir, in East Asia, reverence for ancestors is significant. It has several forms and is connected to the customary notion that the spirits of one’s ancestors live on in one’s family and can influence human events. Gravesite maintenance, also known as “tomb sweeping,” burning incense to honour ancestors, leaving food or drink offerings at gravesites or ancestral altars, especially during certain holidays, and making offerings of spirit money or other items thought to be essential to ensure ancestors’ comfort and happiness in the afterlife are all part of traditional ancestor veneration practices. Even though different religions may have distinct definitions or descriptions of “heaven” and “hell,” many of them share concepts that are comparable to these destinations. For instance, Hinduism and Buddhism teach that heaven and hell are just two of the many transitory places into which a soul might be reborn before departing from the cycle of rebirth. In contrast, Christianity views heaven and hell as the ultimate destinations for the souls of the dead. Thank you for posting.
Respected Sir what a timely article. Very informative and analytical.In the Hindu calendar, the fortnight of the paternal ancestors, or Pitru Paksha, plays a significant role in the cycle of life and death. Lasting for 16 lunar days, this period is when Hindus honour their ancestors, known as Pitrs, mainly by presenting food offerings. Pitriloka, a place between heaven and earth, is where the souls of three generations of one’s ancestors reside. The offerings and remembrance during Pitru Paksha lessen the pain of those in other realms or enhance the pleasure of souls in heaven before they enter samsara or reincarnation. Had those spirits taken a new birth just after they died, Shraddha would have contributed to their joy in that new life.
I heard this story. Extreme hunger afflicted the legendary donor Karna after his soul passed to heaven after the epic Mahabharata conflict. However, he turned every meal he touched into gold right away. Karna and Surya approached Indra to enquire about the reason behind this predicament. Indra informed Karna that although he had given gold to his ancestors in Shraddha all his life, he had never given them food. Thus, he was cursed by the Kuru ancestors, who were in limbo. Karna claimed he never donated in their honour because he was ignorant of his ancestry. For fifteen days, Karna was allowed to return to Earth to conduct shraddha and offer food and drink as a gesture of reparation in their honour. Today, this era is referred to as Pitru Paksha.
Namaskar Sri Arunji, Your reflections on living in the shadows of our ancestors resonate deeply. The interplay between heritage and identity is a complex yet crucial topic. I appreciate how you highlight the necessity of acknowledging our roots while forging our paths. It’s a reminder that our history shapes us, but it doesn’t have to define us. Your insights encourage a dialogue about embracing both the wisdom of the past and the potential of the present. Thank you for sparking this vital conversation.
Sir,
अर्चितानाममूर्तानां पितृणां दीप्ततेजसाम् ।
नमस्यामि सदा तेषां ध्यानिनां दिव्यचक्षुषाम् ॥
They worshipped the immaterial forefathers, whose brightness was beaming.
I always offer my obeisances to those meditators with divine eyes. (Markandeya Puran 94.3)
Dear Arun, Thank you for sharing such an insightful article. I appreciated the way you captured the spiritual significance of Pitra Paksha and the personal reflection you included at the end—it truly brings out the deep connection between the rituals and our sense of heritage. Your exploration of DNA and epigenetics added an interesting scientific perspective, which got me thinking about how our ancestry shapes us in visible and invisible ways.
I wanted to learn more about some of the points you touched on, especially around how these rituals helped our ancestors attain peace and the connection to migration and modern identity. In a future article, you could dive deeper into those topics. Overall, I found it to be an engaging read that blends tradition with modern perspectives really well. Looking forward to reading more of your work!
Very nice piece of writing. In India we appease our ancestors may be for 15 days period only but in most other eastern cultures-Thailand, Bali, China, etc it is everyday affair. Ancestors are all around you 24X7. Vietnam takes this act to next level. Every house and business has a small shrine dedicated to ancestors where an important member of the family offers all kinds of items which their ancestors liked to have..food, cookies, beer, cigarets and what nots. Wish I become an ancestor in Vietnam in my next births.
An excellent blog with your experienced feelings! Let the ancestors bless us all!
Arun ji, excellent blog on Pitru Praksh. Happy that I performed on 19th and expressed my gratitude.
“Living In the Shadows of Our Ancestors” the blog by Professor Arun Tiwari jee is very timely, written just one day before Amavasya, the last day of Hindu Hindu Pitra Paksha. Tiwari jee has left no corner in this blog to fill- in- the blank. Just reminds us to remember who we are, where do we stand and on whose shoulders. This is not just about a ritual to be performed but the hard-core biological facts. We are the gift of our ancestors and are indebted to them for our own existence. I pray them bless us all through this life and the comming generation. Those who forget and disobey them suffer in whole life which is called Pitra-Dosha that has no remedy but to curse and suffer. Therefore, obey your parents and have regards for the grand ones taking due care of them when they need you.
Having performed the pitra puja / pind daan this year at Ayodhya, Varanasi and then Gaya, I must say that the connect with your forbearers is profound and is a reminder of your lineage. Many of us honestly don’t even know the names and the contributions beyond three generations. The current generation due to the nuclear family system finds it even harder to know about their forbearers. A very well researched and written piece that brings us back to our roots.
Dear Prof
This is a good piece on ancestral roots and identity. Every human being craves identity, which informs who we are and our place in society.
Beautifully crafted blog on Pitra Paksh and the way you have penned for modern generation is absolutely true .
Rendering our respect to our ancestors is our prime duty, we can’t ignore at all. It’s because of them we are here and living best of our life. It’s their sacrifice that has made us reach at this level.
I finally will say that….
“We stand strong because of you all”.
It is a beautifully carved Blog on Pitra Paksha , a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of generations and the importance of honouring our ancestors. The rituals and traditions associated with Pitra Paksha offer a valuable opportunity for introspection and gratitude. The idea that our ancestors’ experiences and choices can influence our lives is humbling and empowering. It encourages us to be mindful of our actions and how they might impact future generations.
An apt article this month Arunji. I agree with your views and thoughts shared. Yes every year we follow the rituals pitru paksha despite which part of world we are. Its important to have this continued by future generations too as residing region is agnostic.
We are anchored on the foundation of our Father, Mother, Grand Father, Grand Mother and so on.. from both maternal and paternal lineage. We are the reflections of their virtues, and our personalities, traits, deeds and achievements what makes us to be what we are today. Gratitude and thankfulness to all and the almighty is the essence of life. Pindapradana and TilaTarpana are the essence of our submission in thankfulness to all who made us today what we are..and in continuity life moves on.
Dear Dr. Tiwari ji, You have well expressed your feelings about our great Indian culture. In modern science, we have come across such findings and found truth, as you have also mentioned. Epigenetic regulation plays a very important role. We must combine our science and traditional knowledge to understand life and encourage our generation to maintain our ancestral values. Your thoughts and wisdom are highly appreciated. May God bless you for a healthy and long life. Regards,
An interesting read Prof Tiwari, not a doubt ‘Our ancestors ‘live on’ within us through DNA, which is not merely an idea but a fact. Each person inherits genetic material from their parents, which contains DNA passed down through generations. This genetic information influences everybody, including physical traits, predispositions to specific health conditions, and even some behavioural tendencies. In this sense, every person carries a part of their ancestors’ biological legacy within their cells.’
The Holy Bible tells us ‘Acts 17:26-31
26. And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation; 27. That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us: 28. For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring. 29. Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device. 30. And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men everywhere to repent: 31. Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead’
May we celebrate this knowledge every day in our existence