Gaya: Reliance Capital and Reliance Communication Managing Director Anil Ambani visited Gaya with his wife Tina Ambani to perform Pind Daan for his ancestors and those of actor Amitabh Bachchan. The rituals were conducted at the Vishnupad Temple under the guidance of Shambhulal Vithal, chairman of the temple’s managing committee.
The couple began their day with prayers at the Vishnupad Temple and then visited Mangala Gauri and Mahabodhi Temple in Bodh Gaya, where they offered special prayers to Lord Buddha. Preparations for the Pind Daan were meticulously arranged by the priests. Shambhulal Vithal revealed that Amitabh Bachchan had initially planned to accompany the Ambanis but had to cancel due to unforeseen reasons.
Anil Ambani shared that Amitabh Bachchan inspired him to undertake the rituals, emphasising that Pind Daan in Gaya is believed to eliminate Pitru Dosha and bring peace to ancestral souls. Ambani also performed the rituals for Amitabh Bachchan’s ancestors upon the actor’s request.
Elaborate security arrangements were made for the visit, with police deployed at the temples and throughout Bodh Gaya. Gaya holds a significant place in Hindu tradition, with the belief that performing Pind Daan there liberates 108 families and seven generations.
The Vishnupad Temple is a major site for the ritual, attracting millions of pilgrims annually, especially during the Pitru Paksha fair held between September and October. The tradition is said to date back to Lord Ram and Sita, who performed Pind Daan for King Dasharath at this sacred location.
