[Shraadha]
Annual death ritual of the Hindus for one’s ancestors.
Linga Bhairavi as the energy base to conduct certain processes for the deceased
The Linga Bhairavi is used as the energy base to conduct certain processes for the deceased. There are two options, depending on the cause and time of death. Each involves a process that is conducted in the Linga Bhairavi, followed by a process at the Nirkaya Sthanam (an especially dedicated pond at Isha Yoga Center). At the end, a Prasad is prepared and given.
Kalabhairava Karma can be done within a certain period of time after someone leaves the body. However, another process called Kalabhairava Shanti can be done any time after death.
Kalabhairava Karma
This is a ritual for the deceased, done by invoking Devi’s Grace within a particular time span after death. It brings a certain ease and pleasant transition for both natural and unnatural deaths.
Kalabhairava Shanti
This ritual can be performed any time after death, especially when the deadlines applicable for Kalabhairava Karma have passed. The ritual is conducted on Amavasya (new moon). It can be repeated every month or every year. (See the Isha Lunar Calendar for dates.)
Mahalaya Amavasya
An yearly Kalabhairava Shanti process is also conducted on Mahalaya Amavasya. Mahalaya Amavasya marks the beginning of Devi Pada (a phase of the year considered favorable to access Devi, since the feminine aspects of the planet are more pronounced). A unique Agni Arpana (offering of fire) is done from evening to night, followed by the Shanti process during the midnight Sandhya.