Importance of Shrāddha and its underlying science

The term ‘Shrāddha’ (special rites for the departed ancestors) conjures up an incorrect impression, one of unscientific ritualistic activity in the minds of many people. This is due to the absence of any formal education on Dharma (Righteousness), indifference towards understanding Spirituality along with the influence of western culture.
The shrāddha rites provide us with an excellent opportunity to fulfill our duties and repay our debts unto the ancestors. The shrāddha rites are necessary so that the journey of our parents (after death), who have cared for us so much since our birth, becomes comfortable without any distress, and they attain momentum for moving to the next higher region. By performing shrāddha, we get relieved from the distress caused by our ancestors and our life on earth becomes comfortable. This Spiritual text includes valuable information on various types of shrāddha rites, who should perform these rites, the time and place for shrāddha, necessary food items to be cooked for the rites, process of performing shrāddha, ways and means to overcome obstacles faced while performing shrāddha, etc. It also clarifies common doubts such as how do the ancestors gain further momentum due to shrāddha, how does the offered food actually reach the ancestors, etc.