Every year during Pitru Paksha, a 16-day period dedicated to honoring one’s ancestors, Hindu families across India perform Shraddha—a solemn ritual marked by prayers, food offerings, and one unusual but deeply symbolic act: feeding crows.
But what makes these black-feathered birds so important in a ritual that connects the living with the dead?
The Crow: Not Just a Bird, But a Messenger
In Hindu tradition, crows are believed to be the earthly representatives of ancestors (Pitrs). According to ancient texts like the Garuda Purana and Manu Smriti, it is believed that when food is offered to a crow during Shraddha, it reaches the souls of departed ancestors. A crow accepting the food is considered a divine sign—proof that the offering has been received and the soul is at peace.
Mythological Roots: The Tale of Kākbhushundi
Hindu mythology gives crows a sacred identity through the story of Kākbhushundi, a wise sage who chose to live in the form of a crow to spread devotion to Lord Rama. This link between crows and spirituality elevates their status far beyond superstition.
Why During Pitru Paksha?
Pitru Paksha is believed to be a time when the spirits of the ancestors descend to the earthly realm. It is the duty of the descendants to nourish them with food, prayers, and respect. Crows, seen as a direct link to these ancestors, act as the medium through which this connection is fulfilled.
If the crow eats the food offered during Shraddha, it is believed that the departed soul is satisfied. If the crow refuses, some interpret it as a sign that the soul is unhappy or the ritual was incomplete, prompting families to perform additional prayers.
Beyond Belief: A Ritual of Gratitude and Continuity
Feeding crows during Shraddha is more than a religious formality—it’s a gesture of gratitude. In a world obsessed with material success and the future, this ritual serves as a powerful reminder to look back, honor our lineage, and acknowledge the lives that made ours possible.
Moreover, the practice encourages compassion for all beings, reinforcing the value of humility and interconnectedness with nature and the cosmos.
Modern Relevance: Culture Meets Ecology
Interestingly, this age-old tradition also carries environmental wisdom. Crows are scavengers and play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. Feeding them sustains their population and keeps urban waste under check—an unspoken service rooted in ritual.
Conclusion: A Sacred Bond That Transcends Life and Death
In the act of feeding a crow during Pitru Paksha, we are not just observing a custom—we are participating in an ancient spiritual bridge that connects generations, fosters gratitude, and preserves harmony between the human and natural world.
So the next time you see someone setting out food for a crow during Shraddha, know that it’s not just about tradition—it’s about love, remembrance, and an eternal link to those who came before us.
Last Updated on Thursday, July 10, 2025 5:41 am by Goulikar Abhishek
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