Kushe Aunsi: Tradition, Identity, and Cultural Significance

“Snāne dāne jape home svadhyāye pitṛkarmaṇi ।
Karau sadarbhau kurvīta tathā sandhyābhivādane ।।”

In the Sanatan cultural tradition, on Bhadra Krishna Aunsi, also known as Kushe Aunsi, Kush grass is brought into every household. This sacred plant is a highly useful herb with special traditional, cultural, religious, social, scientific, and Ayurvedic significance. Whether for divine rituals or ancestral ceremonies, Kush grass has been indispensable from birth to death. Its importance has been recognized since the Vedic era, and even today, scientists have conducted some research on Kush, known by the scientific name Eragrostis cynosuroides, with further studies ongoing. The festival celebrated every year is not limited to religious rituals but is deeply connected with our tradition and identity.

Vedic and religious texts highlight the significance of Kush. In the Rigveda, Kush is mentioned as a sacred seat and a yagnic plant. In the Manusmriti, it is stated, “Darbham samiddham havisha vidhema”, meaning that offering Kush in Yajna pleases the deities. The Mahabharata states, “Kushāsane sthito yaḥ syāt sadā syāt puṇyavattaraḥ”, which means that a person sitting on a Kush seat remains pure and attains merit. The Garuda Purana declares, “Kushā dharmasya mūrtiḥ syāt”, describing Kush as the embodiment of dharma. Manusmriti also mentions, “Without Kush, sesame seeds, and water, ancestral offerings cannot be successful.” Thus, Kushe Aunsi is not only a day to remember ancestors but also a continuation of dharma and sage traditions.

Kushe Aunsi is also called “the day to see one’s father”, offering an opportunity to express gratitude toward fathers and forefathers. It strengthens ancestral remembrance, family unity, and generational bonds. Especially, it is considered a symbol of social morality, as children honor their parents with respect. On this day, traditions include Pitru Tarpan (ancestral rites), Shraddha, and communal feasts, reinforcing respect and harmony.

Although the scriptures do not explicitly mention “science,” the sages’ experiential knowledge aligns with modern scientific findings:

• Electromagnetic waves: Laboratory tests show that Kush fibers can absorb electromagnetic (EM) waves.

• Radiation absorption: Using Kush mats has been shown by Indian scientists to reduce radioactive radiation.

• Meditation effects: Sitting on Kush during meditation separates the body’s electric circuit from the Earth, enhancing focus and mental stability.

• Antimicrobial properties: Kush naturally purifies the environment. Regular use of Kush mats or seats can benefit patients with high blood pressure and other ailments.

From an astrological perspective, on this day, both the Sun and Moon are in Leo. As it also coincides with Saturday, it is considered an ideal day for Shani Amavasya, promoting planetary peace. Additionally, Kush water helps remove negative energy from Rahu, benefiting those affected by this planet.

Kushe Aunsi is not just a religious observance; it is a cultural link that strengthens tradition and identity. In the days to come, we should not only keep Kush at home but also educate future generations about its importance and uses. Through ancestral remembrance, we instill gratitude; through the use of Kush, we send messages of health and environmental care; and through family unity, we revive social values. Therefore, it is clear that “Tradition and Identity: Kushe Aunsi is indispensable.”

— Jyotishacharya / Vastu Expert
Pandit Narayan Prasad Dulal