by Suresh Pd Nikhar
Gaya, Bihar: In a vibrant display of cultural unity, twelve foreign pilgrims, including five women, participated in traditional Pind Daan rituals as part of the ongoing Pitru Paksha festival in Gaya (Bihar) in India on Monday. This significant event, attracting devotees from around the world, emphasizes the ancestral rites performed along the banks of the sacred Falgu River.
Led by Indian-origin resident Loknath Gaud, the group of foreigners donned traditional Indian attire—sarees and kurta-pyjamas—highlighting their commitment to honouring their ancestors. The international participants hail from countries including Russia, Uzbekistan, Nigeria, Germany, and several African nations, reflecting a growing global interest in these spiritual practices.
During their visit, the group engaged in Pind Daan and Tarpan rituals, followed by a visit to the renowned Vishnupad Temple for the darshan of Lord Vishnu. Their participation comes amidst a remarkable turnout for the festival, with over 1 million devotees already partaking in rituals during this fortnight-long event.
The gathering not only underscores Gaya’s significance as a site for ancestral rites but also bridges diverse cultures and traditions in the pursuit of spiritual fulfillment. The pilgrims arrived in Gayavia Varanasi, known as the city of Lord Shiva, and made stops at key religious sites such as Vishnupad, Devghat, and the Sitakund complex.
As the Pitru Paksha fair continues, the spirit of devotion and remembrance resonates strongly, drawing people from all corners of the globe to this sacred pilgrimage site.
