Global Devotees Flock to Gaya for Pitru Paksha Rituals

The Pitru Paksha fair in Gaya has attracted both local and international devotees who have gathered to perform Pind Daan for their ancestors. The religious event, which began on September 17th, sees pilgrims from countries such as Russia, Germany, and Nigeria seeking to bring peace to their ancestral spirits.

The Pitru Paksha fair in the city of Gaya is in full swing as of September 17th. Renowned as the city of Lord Vishnu, Gaya has become a hub for devotees from across the globe aiming to perform Pind Daan for their deceased ancestors.

In Hindu belief, the soul remains in the material world after death. Pind Daan is a sacred ritual that helps the soul find peace and transition to a realm of tranquility. Gaya is considered an exceptionally holy site for this ritual. Pilgrims from various nations have traveled to this Indian city to perform Pind Daan for their ancestors.

International pilgrims arriving in Gaya via Varanasi include visitors from countries such as Russia, Uzbekistan, Nigeria, Germany, Ghana, and other African nations. On Monday, twelve pilgrims performed the ritual at Dev Ghat, a revered site in Gaya.

Priest Acharya Loknath Gaur, who facilitated the rituals, stated that the foreign devotees successfully carried out the Pind Daan and Shraddha Karma, fulfilling their desire for their ancestors' spiritual peace. They expressed immense satisfaction after performing the sacred traditions.

According to the Hindu calendar, Pitru Paksha is a 16-day period ending on Mahalaya, which marks the beginning of Devi Paksha and the arrival of Goddess Durga. Devotees believe that Pind Daan aids their ancestors in achieving salvation and paves the way to heaven. Every year, numerous devotees perform Pind Daan and take a holy dip in the river Falgu on the final day of Pitru Paksha, also known as Sarva Pitru Amavasya.

(With inputs from agencies.)