Are Pilgrimages, Observing Fasts and doing Ancestor Worship (Shraadhs) of any use?

According to the spiritual knowledge shared in Gyan Ganga, activities such as pilgrimages, observing fasts, and performing shraadhs (ancestor worship) are considered futile and go against the teachings of the scriptures. While these practices are widely accepted and performed with the hope of attaining religious merit and peace, they do not lead to true spiritual progress or salvation. Here's an in-depth explanation supported by scriptural evidence, as highlighted in Gyan Ganga.

Pilgrimages

Many believe that going on pilgrimages to sacred sites can lead to the cleansing of sins and spiritual purification. However, as per Gyan Ganga, simply visiting these holy places does not result in any significant spiritual attainment. True spiritual progress comes from devotion to the Supreme God and following the correct spiritual path under the guidance of a Complete Saint.

Bhagavad Gita does not endorse the idea that merely visiting a place can lead to salvation. Instead, it emphasizes devotion and knowledge as the path to liberation. Therefore, pilgrimages, while culturally significant, do not lead to true spiritual fulfillment or salvation.

Observing Fasts

Observing fasts is another practice performed by millions in the hope of gaining religious merit or favor from the gods. However, this practice is also discouraged in the scriptures, particularly in the Bhagavad Gita.

In Bhagavad Gita 6:16, Lord Krishna clearly states, "O Arjuna, there is no possibility of becoming a yogi if one eats too much or eats too little, sleeps too much or does not sleep enough." This verse implies that extreme practices, such as fasting, which are not done in moderation or with true understanding, are of no use in attaining spiritual growth.

As per Gyan Ganga, fasting without understanding its true purpose only causes physical discomfort and does not help in spiritual progress. True devotion comes from understanding and practicing the teachings of the scriptures, not through self-imposed physical hardships.

Shraadhs (Ancestor Worship)

Performing shraadhs, or rituals for deceased ancestors, is another widely practiced custom. However, Gyan Ganga makes it clear that this practice is not supported by the scriptures and does not bring any benefit to the ancestors or to those performing it.

In Bhagavad Gita 9:25, it is said, "Those who worship the demigods will take birth among the demigods; those who worship ancestors go to the ancestors; those who worship ghosts and spirits will take birth among such beings." This verse points out that worshipping ancestors leads to rebirth in the ancestral realm, which is still within the cycle of birth and death. It does not help the soul attain salvation, which is the ultimate goal of human life.

Conclusion

According to Gyan Ganga, the practices of going on pilgrimages, fasting, and performing shraadhs are futile and do not contribute to one’s spiritual progress or salvation. These activities are not supported by the true teachings of the scriptures and do not lead to liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Instead, salvation can only be attained by following the true path of devotion as revealed by the Complete Saint and as described in the holy scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita. Therefore, it is essential to understand the correct spiritual path and focus on true worship, rather than on these ritualistic practices that do not bring real spiritual benefit.