Gayaji: The world-renowned Pitru Paksha fair in Gayaji entered its sixth day on Ashwin Krishna Panchami, drawing large crowds to Vishnupad temple where rituals of Pind Daan were performed at Brahma Pada, Rudra Pada and Vishnu Pada. On this day, offerings are made with pinds of kheer — a practice steeped in legend and religious tradition.
According to the Puranas, Bhishma Pitamah himself is said to have performed Pind Daan for his father Shantanu on this very date, choosing the Vishnu Pada over Shantanu’s outstretched hands. His act of devotion, scriptures say, granted Shantanu moksha and set a precedent followed by Lord Rama, who also performed Pind Daan for King Dasharath at these sacred altars.
The rituals carry deep symbolism: offerings at Brahma Pada are believed to lead ancestors to Brahma Lok, at Rudra Pada to Rudra Lok, and at Vishnu Pada to Vishnu Lok. At the Vishnupad temple, pilgrims bow before the visible footprint of Lord Vishnu, a site revered for its power to absolve sins and grant the departed eternal peace.
“This is the day when devotees must perform Pind Daan at all three pads, following the example of Bhishma Pitamah,” explained Gayapal Panda Gajadhar Lal Katriyar. “By doing so, ancestors are believed to attain the highest spiritual realms.”
The district administration reported that more than 11 lakh pilgrims had visited Gayaji by September 11, the fifth day of the fair, with international visitors also among the faithful. Officials expect the total turnout this year to surpass 20 lakh, underscoring the enduring significance of Gayaji as a mokshabhoomi — a land of salvation.
Beyond the Vishnupad temple, rituals are being observed at other sacred sites such as Punpun beach, Falgu river, Brahma Kund, Pret Shila, Ram Shila and Sita Kund, with daily Pind Daan and tarpan ceremonies led by acharyas.
The sixth day thus forms a central moment in the fortnight-long festival, where faith, tradition and memory intertwine in offerings made to the ancestors.
