My father attained Paramapadam during June 2021. Coming June 1st is his varushaptikam (first annual ceremony). My mother lives with me When should I perform Gaya shraddham? What is its importance? What is Akshaya Vatam? Must Rameshwaram Sethu snanam be completed along with Gaya shraddham? Must we go on pilgrimage only after completing all of the above? Due health reasons, my mother cannot travel to Gaya and other places. Is it alright for only adiyen and my wife to travel for Gaya shraddham and Sethu snanam?

Only after completion of varushaptikam, Gaya shraddham must be performed. References on Gaya shraddham are found in Srimad Ramayana, “yeshta vyaa bahavaa putraaH yad ekopi agayaam vrajet”. That is, one must beget several sons in the hope at least one of them will perform Gaya shraddham. Gaya shraddham is important.

Akshaya Vatam is a divine place at Gaya.

It is a common practice that when one goes on a pilgrimage to the North, one also goes on pilgrimage to divine places in the South. In our tradition, we do not go to Rameshwaram. Only Sethu snanam is required at Dhanushkodi, which must certainly be done.

There is no need to complete all of these before going on a pilgrimage. Once varushaptikam is completed, one can go on pilgrimage.

It is alright if your mother is unable to accompany you to these places. As a son you can do the needful.