Gayaji: Thousands of devotees have gathered in Gayaji for the world-famous Pitru Paksha mela, now in its 15th day, which coincides with the 14th day of Gaya Shradh. The highlight of the day is a ritual at the Vaitarani Vedi, where pilgrims offer prayers and donate cows, a practice believed to guide departed souls to heaven and grant salvation to 21 generations.
The fair, which began on September 6, will conclude on September 21, having already drawn over 2.7 million pilgrims from across India and abroad.
Vaitarani Vedi: A Path to Salvation
The rituals performed at the Vaitarani Vedi hold profound religious significance. Bathing and offering prayers here on the 14th day of the dark fortnight of Ashvin month (Ashvin Krishna Chaturdashi) is said to enable ancestors to cross the Vaitarani River, the mythological pathway to Yamaloka—the realm of Yama, the god of death—and ultimately reach heaven. According to the Puranas, these offerings bring liberation to the departed souls and blessings to the families performing the rituals.
The Significance of Cow Donations
Donating cows at Vaitarani Vedi is considered essential, regardless of the donor’s wealth. Scriptures describe cow donations as aiding departed souls in crossing the Vaitarani River, thereby ensuring their safe passage to heaven. Saints emphasise that this act not only benefits the ancestors but also promotes prosperity and well-being for their descendants.
Tradition and Devotion
Devotees are urged to perform the rituals with full devotion and adherence to traditional guidelines. Offering water, alms, and donations in the prescribed manner is believed to maximise the spiritual merit of the pilgrimage. “Performing these rituals at this sacred place leads to the liberation of the departed souls. They attain heaven after crossing the Vaitarani River, and salvation is bestowed upon 21 generations,” said Gajadhar Lal Katariyare, Gaya Pal Pande.
The Pitru Paksha fair is one of India’s most significant religious gatherings, bringing together millions of pilgrims seeking to honour their ancestors. This year, as in previous years, the rituals performed on the 14th day of the dark fortnight of Ashvin are regarded as particularly auspicious, promising peace, prosperity, and spiritual merit for those who participate.
