Beyond Human Bonds: Are Animals Part of Shraddha and Pind Daan Rituals?

Shraddha, derived from the Sanskrit word “shraddha” meaning faith or devotion, is a ritual performed to pay homage to ancestors. Pind Daan, which literally means the offering of rice balls (pinda), is performed as part of Shraddha ceremonies. These pindas represent the physical body and are offered with prayers for the liberation of the departed soul. The rituals are especially emphasized during Pitru Paksha, a fortnight in the lunar calendar dedicated to ancestor worship.

The core belief is that performing Shraddha brings peace to the souls of ancestors and ensures prosperity, health, and harmony for their descendants. By performing these rites, families express gratitude for their lineage and acknowledge the cycle of life and death.
Traditional texts such as the Garuda Purana, Manusmriti, and Dharma Shastras primarily mention Shraddha and Pind Daan in the context of human ancestors. The rituals are described with precision, including the ingredients used, the mantras chanted, and the roles of priests and family members. There is no direct mention of animals being included in these rites.

However, Hinduism has always recognized the sanctity of animals. From the cow revered as “Gau Mata” to Garuda, the celestial eagle, and Nandi, the bull of Lord Shiva, animals are central to the spiritual imagination of Hindu culture. Many deities are associated with vahanas or animal companions, which indicates that animals are not seen as separate from divine existence but as partners in the cosmic order. This opens space for interpretation when considering whether rituals like Shraddha and Pind Daan can extend to animals.
In many households today, pets such as dogs, cats, and birds are not just companions but treated as integral members of the family. Their loyalty, affection, and silent companionship create bonds that often surpass human relationships. When such beloved animals pass away, their absence leaves a profound void.

Given this deep emotional connection, many people question whether the same reverence shown to human ancestors can be extended to animals through rituals. This does not necessarily mean that scriptures directly sanction such practices, but rather that cultural and personal devotion inspire adaptations. In some regions, people have started offering symbolic Shraddha or Pind Daan for their pets as an act of love and closure.
Although classical texts remain focused on humans, folklore and regional traditions sometimes blur the boundaries. In rural India, certain communities honor cows, bulls, and even dogs during festivals and rituals, treating them as part of the family. For example, in Nepal, Kukur Tihar celebrates dogs with garlands, tilak, and special food as an acknowledgment of their loyalty. This demonstrates that animals are indeed woven into the spiritual fabric of rituals, even if not directly linked to Shraddha.

Some priests in pilgrimage centers such as Gaya have reported being approached by grieving pet owners who request rituals for their animals. While not officially codified, priests often accommodate these requests with modified rites, emphasizing that devotion and intention carry greater weight than rigid adherence to tradition.
In Hindu philosophy, the concept of “rinas” or debts plays a vital role. Every human being is said to carry three primary debts: to the gods (Deva Rina), to the sages (Rishi Rina), and to the ancestors (Pitru Rina). Shraddha and Pind Daan are ways of repaying Pitru Rina.

Animals, however, are not bound by these debts in the same way as humans. Their souls are considered innocent, untouched by karmic obligations that humans accumulate. This raises a theological question: if animals are free from ancestral debts, do they require Shraddha or Pind Daan at all?

Some argue that since animals act out of instinct rather than free will, their souls naturally attain liberation or are reborn without the same karmic burden as humans. In this interpretation, they do not require rituals like Pind Daan. Others counter that since animals become part of human families and share their destinies, honoring them through rituals is a way of acknowledging their role in human life, if not fulfilling a cosmic debt.
Beyond scriptural debates, the performance of Shraddha or Pind Daan for animals often serves a psychological purpose. Rituals offer a structured way to process grief and find closure. For pet owners, performing such ceremonies can provide solace, helping them cope with loss.

Just as humans remember ancestors with offerings and prayers, remembering a beloved pet with symbolic offerings can strengthen the bond and provide peace to the grieving heart. In this sense, the ritual becomes less about theological correctness and more about emotional healing.
Including animals in rituals also highlights the broader ethical teachings of Hinduism, such as ahimsa (non-violence) and daya (compassion). By honoring animals in sacred ways, humans affirm their responsibility toward all living beings. It reflects an inclusive spirituality where compassion is not confined to humans but extended to every form of life.

At the same time, one must respect the sanctity of traditional practices. While adaptations can be meaningful, they should be performed with sincerity and awareness rather than as novelty. It is essential to consult knowledgeable priests or spiritual guides when incorporating such practices to maintain both respect and authenticity.
As society evolves, religious practices often adapt to reflect changing values. The inclusion of pets and animals in rituals like Shraddha and Pind Daan may not become mainstream, but it is likely to grow as more people recognize the depth of human-animal bonds.

Some spiritual leaders already encourage offering prayers for all beings, human and non-human alike. They emphasize that the ultimate aim of any ritual is love, remembrance, and liberation. In this view, the soul of an animal, like that of a human, deserves respect and remembrance.

Future generations may see more formalized versions of such practices, especially in urban contexts where pets are central to family life. With increasing awareness of animal rights and spirituality, rituals honoring animals could become part of the larger narrative of compassion in religious life.
The question of whether animals are part of Shraddha and Pind Daan rituals opens a dialogue between tradition and modernity, scripture and sentiment, philosophy and compassion. While classical texts focus on human ancestors, the inclusive nature of Hindu spirituality leaves room for personal expression.

Animals, who walk beside humans with loyalty and love, may not require Shraddha in the traditional sense, but remembering them with similar devotion enriches the human heart and reflects the essence of the rituals themselves: gratitude, remembrance, and connection.

Ultimately, whether one performs Shraddha for an animal or not, the act of honoring their memory carries the same spirit of faith and love. In this way, Shraddha and Pind Daan extend beyond human bonds, reminding us that all beings share the sacred circle of life.

Discover expert advice and the latest tips on pet care, training, health, and more. Stay updated with all things pets at Times Pets!

Frequently Asked Questions[FAQs]

1. Can Shraddha and Pind Daan be performed for animals?
   Traditionally, these rituals are meant for human ancestors, but many people now perform symbolic ceremonies for their pets as an act of love and remembrance.
2. Do scriptures mention Shraddha for animals?
   Classical texts focus on humans, yet Hindu philosophy deeply reveres animals, leaving room for personal devotion and symbolic rituals.
3. Why do some people perform Pind Daan for pets?
   It helps pet owners find emotional closure, honor their pets, and express gratitude for their companionship.
4. Do animals have Pitru Rina like humans?
   No, animals are not considered bound by ancestral debts, but honoring them reflects compassion and respect for life.