Prayagraj, September 22 (Daily Kiran) : The countdown to Pitru Paksha has begun, with just a few days remaining. In Prayagraj, the Pandas are focused on organizing and preserving their centuries-old records.
These extensive handwritten registers document the ancestral histories of millions of families from across the country. They enable pilgrims to trace their ancestors in just minutes. Even in this modern age of technology, the priests in Prayagraj place their utmost trust in these traditional records.
The special paper and ink used in these accounts are remarkably durable, lasting for decades. When a new devotee arrives to perform rituals for their ancestors, the Pandas can quickly locate details about their grandparents, great-grandparents, or even earlier ancestors based on their names, original hometowns, and caste-clan affiliations.
Dhruv Tiwari notes that these records are legally recognized as solid family evidence, often proving helpful in resolving familial disputes or establishing lineages.
“People from all over India, including the southern states, come here to perform rituals for their ancestors,” Tiwari explained. “We maintain these records based on regional categories. Our registers include around 300 old lineages. The names of ancestors are found in our records, which are not available in government offices.”
Rajesh Kumar Tiwari, another Panda, added, “Pitru Paksha begins on September 26. Many people arrive in Prayagraj a day early for the rituals. We maintain these records for the pilgrims. About 70% of people are unaware of their ancestors. We update old records into new versions. We have records dating back to 1823. To preserve these accounts, we use herbal treatments and dry them in the sun monthly.”
Vijay Sahu from Deoria commented, “In Prayagraj, the Pandas provide data about ancestors. Once their names are known, we can perform the required rituals.”
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