1) In whose memory a Pithru Kattalai can be instituted?

A person can institute Pithru Karma in memory of any person / any thing that he/she beholds dear to his/her heart.

2) Can Pithru Karma be instituted in memory of relatives other than Father, Mother, Husband, and Wife?

Yes. It can be instituted in memory of other relatives also.

3) Can Pithru Karma be instituted in memory of friends?

Yes. It can be instituted in memory of friends as well.

4) What is meant by - 'Pithru Karma can be instituted in memory of Any Thing'?

Pithru Karma is an act of remembering a departed soul by an individual concerned and in this process one has a right to remember beyond human beings, including pet animals. As per Hindu Upanishads, the Almighty (the Parabrhamam) pervades through the entire Universe encompassing all souls - Human as well as Animals.

5) Is not this provision as well as that of permitting a Female to be a Kartha - a violation of procedures?

Not so, in as much as the scheme administered by the Foundation recognises only the need to translate the desires/sincere feelings of the individuals concerned into tangible action. What is carried out by the Foundation is a facility to perform Pithru Karma on behalf of those who are unable to do so for various reasons.