It is their wish. Traditionally, widows were not allowed to decorate themselves, or look beautiful, with the intention that no other man should look at them lustfully.
By accepting the theory of rebirth, you are acknowledging your belief in Scriptures.
Kali Yuga has two deficiencies viz., deficiency in time and deficiency in faith.
Why do you even think that it should not be conducted?
Has your friend who sacrificed the goat studied the Bhagavat Gita and understood its meaning?
The practice of according welcome to saints, emperors etc. with Purna kumbha has been in vogue since time immemorial.
Singing of bhajans is very necessary even at that time. Why then did Swamiji put this restriction?
As per our scriptures there are 72000 nādis (subtle astral nerves) in a human body.
Does God eat the food you have placed before Him? He doesn’t.