What items are traditionally mixed while performing Pinda?

Pt. Shri. Vedavyasacharya

Shrardh

While preparing Pindas during Shraddha, certain ingredients need to be mixed with the rice. Many people have a doubt—some say banana should be added, while others say it should not be added.

So, what do the scriptures actually say?

The Smriti Muktavali explains:

“Tilam annam cha pāniyam dadhi ksheeram gudam tathā, madhusarpiḥ samāyuktam ashtāngam pinda lakshanam.”

Meaning:

A proper Pinda must have eight components:

1. Rice (Anna)
2. Sesame seeds (Til)
3. Water
4. Curd
5. Milk
6. Jaggery
7. Honey
8. Ghee

Additionally, some other Smriti texts also mention:

• Darbha (sacred grass)
• Tulasi (holy basil)

So, a Pinda may be made with 8 or 10 ingredients in total.

Important point:

• Nowhere in the scriptures is it mentioned that banana must be added.

Conclusion:

If these 8 or 10 prescribed ingredients are used, it is considered a proper Pinda, and the Pitru Devatas will accept it. Adding banana is not required.

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