A History of Sanskrit Literature c12.30

c12.30

The soul is supposed to remain separated from the Manes for a time as a *preta* or “ghost.” A *çrāddha*, or “offering given with faith” (*çraddhā*), of which it is the special object (*ekoddiṣṭa*), is presented to it in this state, the idea being that it would otherwise return and disquiet the relatives. Before the expiry of a year he is admitted to the circle of the Manes by a rite which makes him their *sapiṇḍa* (“united by the funeral cake”). After the lapse of a year or more another elaborate ceremony (called *pitṛi-medha*) takes place in connection with the erection of a monument, when the bones are taken out of the urn and buried in a suitable place. There are further various general offerings to the Manes, or *çrāddhas*, which take place at fixed periods, such as that on the day of new moon (*pārvaṇa çrāddha*), while others are only occasional and optional. These rites still play an important part in India, well-to-do families in Bengal spending not less than 5000 to 6000 rupees on their first *çrāddha*.