What is Nārāyaṇa bali, and when is it done?

a special rite for those who died suddenly or untimely — accident, drowning, suicide — offered to Viṣṇu for their peace.

Nārāyaṇa bali is described in the Garuḍa Purāṇa and the Dharmaśāstra digests as a rite performed when a person's death was sudden or unnatural, or when the usual rites could not be done properly. In it, Lord Viṣṇu (Nārāyaṇa) is worshipped, and through Him offerings are made for the departed, so that the normal śrāddha cycle can continue in peace. It is often paired with Nāga bali, and is famously performed at Tryambakeśvara, Gayā and other tīrthas.

It is usually done once, by the family, with a qualified priest, sometimes over two or three days.

It is a loving extra support for someone whose life ended abruptly — not a sign that the person is “trapped” or that the family is cursed. If no such rite was done, ordinary śrāddha and prayer still reach them. Do it if your family wishes, without fear.

Source: Garuḍa Purāṇa; Dharmasindhu · Often performed at Tryambakeśvara (Nāsik)

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