Gowthami Ghat in Rajamahendravaram is the principal location for performing Pitru Tarpanam and Pinda Pradanam rituals during Godavari Pushkaralu 2027. Named after Sage Gautama whose meditation gave the Godavari river its alternate name “Gautami”, this ghat is considered uniquely powerful for honouring departed ancestors and seeking liberation (moksha) for souls of the deceased.
Why Gowthami Ghat for Ancestor Rituals?
According to the Skanda Purana, the river Godavari at Gautami flow descended directly from Sage Gautama’s tapasya, making this confluence among the holiest spots for ancestor offerings. Performing Tarpanam and Pinda Pradanam at Gowthami Ghat during the Pushkaralu window is said to liberate seven generations of ancestors and grant moksha to all unborn descendants.
How to Perform Pitru Tarpanam
- Take the holy dip first in tridhanu snanam style
- Sit facing south on the dedicated tarpanam platform
- Wear pavithram (sacred ring of darbha grass) on the right hand ring finger
- Take water with sesame seeds and barley in cupped hands
- Recite the gotra and ancestral lineage mantras with the priest
- Offer water to the Pitrus while reciting their names
- Conclude with deepa daanam (lighting an oil lamp) and dakshina to the priest
Designated Platforms for Pinda Pradanam
Pinda Pradanam at Gowthami Ghat is performed on dedicated platforms set apart from the bathing steps, so the rites are not disturbed by bathing crowds. Further platforms and facilities were announced as works for the 2027 festival, but the East Godavari district administration has not yet published how many there will be, what each will provide, or whether any token or booking system will operate, and its Godavari Pushkaralu 2027 page is the position of record. Carry your own sesame seeds, barley and pinda materials rather than relying on them being supplied at the ghat.
For full ritual details see Pushkaralu Rituals Guide. For pilgrim assistance see Helpdesk.