- By Kashish Rai
- Fri, 29 Sep 2023 12:52 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Pitru Paksha 2023: The period to remember ancestors known as Pitru Paksha has begun on 29th September 2023 and will go on till 14th October 2023. This period of significant to perform Pind Daan and Shradh. People decide where to do this rite based on their beliefs and capabilities. There are numerous noteworthy sites where it is claimed that the Pind Daan produces the best effects, with Gaya being the most notable. Doing Pind daan is also said to be fortunate during the Pitru Paksha phase. The holy city of Gaya is located in the Bihar. Gaya is referred to as the home of Lord Vishnu. This place is known as the "land of salvation." The significance of Gaya is mentioned in the Vayu Purana and the Vishnu Purana. According to the Vishnu Purana, performing Pind Daan in Gaya will bring salvation to the ancestors. As it is thought that Lord Vishnu himself is present here in the form of Pitru Devta, the place is also known as "Pitru Tirtha."
Pitru Paksha 2023: Importance Of Performing Pind Daan In Gaya
The sacred Hindu scriptures suggest that by performing tarpan or pind daan at Gaya on the banks of the Falgu river, the ancestors will attain salvation and the family will be safeguarded for seven generations, including the parents. However, there are other significant advantages of performing the Pind Daan rituals at Gaya:
- The sacred Hindu texts mention that in Treta Yuga, Lord Ram Lord Rama travelled to Gaya to perform pind daan for his father Maharaj Dasaratha.
- Whether it be in the distant past, the recent past, or the present, Gaya has an extensive and varied past. For Hindus, Gaya is in particular the place of salvation.
It is believed that Lord Rama performed Pind Daan for his father Maharaj Dashrath at Gaya. (Image Source: Canva)
- The holy city of Gaya is the only teerth in the world where the 54 Vedis can be found doing pind daan and shradh karma all around the city.
- Buddhism asserts that Gaya was referred to as the "land of enlightenment" when the Lord Buddha preached in Bodhgaya beneath the majestic Banyan tree.
- The largest Pitru Paksha Mela takes place at Gaya every year for 18 days in the monsoon season (September–October). Thousands of people travel to Gaya from across the globe to offer pind daan during the period of pitru paksha mela.
Also Read: Top 7 Famous Places In India To Perform Pind Daan And Shradh For Ancestors
- Gaya, also referred to as Gayapuri in the Mahabharat was named after a demon by the name of Gayasur who was granted salvation by Lord Vishnu.
- The Bhagavad Gita and some sacred Puranas were both written by Maharshi Vedavyasa at Gaya itself. Each year, thousands of pilgrims flock to this sacred location in order to delve into the spiritual world and reconnect with their roots.
(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information. Jagran English does not confirm its veracity. Before adopting any measures, consult an expert from the relevant field.)