Pune: A family dispute over the care of an elderly father escalated into violence during a 'Bharani Shraddha' ceremony, with police registering charges against four family members, including two nephews.

The incident occurred at Yash Classic building near Daruwala Bridge, Ganesh Peth, on Saturday afternoon.

A 47-year-old man from Bibwewadi lodged a complaint at the Faraskhana Police Station, leading to charges being filed against his brother, sister, and two nephews.

The altercation broke out shortly after the family had gathered to perform the Bharani Shraddha ritual for their deceased mother. Bharani Shraddha, considered a significant religious ritual, is believed to provide peace to the departed soul and grant spiritual liberation.

Traditionally performed during Pitrupaksha when the Bharani Nakshatra falls, the ritual is said to offer merit equivalent to completing pilgrimages like the one to Gaya. This year, the Bharani Shraddha fell on September 21, prompting relatives from various parts of Pune to come together.

However, after the ceremony, a heated discussion ensued regarding who would take responsibility for caring for their elderly father. The dispute quickly turned physical, with the complainant’s brother reportedly attacking him, hurling verbal abuse, and kicking him.

The situation worsened when the two nephews joined the fray, allegedly assaulting the complainant with bangles, leaving him injured.

The Faraskhana police are investigating the incident, led by Constable Gurav. The siblings, who had gathered to perform a pious act in honor of their mother, now find themselves at odds with each other, having left the ceremony with deep-rooted enmity.