Kankabhisheka in Hinduism literally means showering of gold
coins on an individual as an honor or as a part of a religious rite. The ritual
is performed either by directly showering gold coins over a person or by pour
water over the coins placed in a sieve above the head of the person.
When is it performed?
It is mainly performed with Sathabhishekam – a ceremony
observed when person has witnessed one thousand full moons. Some communities observe it when a person completes his/her 80th birthday.
Kankabhisheka ritual is also performed by disciples to honor
pontiffs, teachers and scholars. The coins used in the ritual are used for
educational and charitable purposes.
Why is it performed and the benefits?
It is believed that the ritual confers prosperity and
longevity on the recipient.
The ritual is equal to taking holy dip in Ganga River, visit
teerthas, practicing chandrayana or giving alms.
The rite has the capability for elevating ten generations of
ancestors in the past and descentants of ten generations in future and one’s
self to heaven.
The ritual is accompanied by the chanting of Vedic hymns, performance of oblations with twigs of different sacred trees and offering of food to people.
How is the ritual observed?
The person is directly showered with gold coins in temple or in a sacred place or in the house.The ritual is accompanied by the chanting of Vedic hymns, performance of oblations with twigs of different sacred trees and offering of food to people.
The coins used for the ceremony are distributed among the
poor and needy.