Gaya: The world-famous Pitru Paksha Mela begins in Gaya on Friday, September 25, with Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary scheduled to formally inaugurate the 15-day religious gathering.
Preparations for the annual event have been completed, with the district administration expecting lakhs of devotees from across India and abroad to visit Gaya for religious rituals dedicated to their ancestors.
Deputy chief ministers, ministers, MPs, MLAs and senior district administration officials are expected to attend the inauguration ceremony.
CM to Offer Prayers at Vishnupad Temple
Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary will begin his visit by offering prayers at the Vishnupad Temple.
After the prayers, he is scheduled to travel via Devghat and the bypass to the tent city at Gandhi Maidan, where he will address a gathering and formally inaugurate the fair.
Security arrangements have been strengthened in view of the Chief Minister’s visit and the expected gathering of devotees.
Lakhs of Devotees Expected for Pind Daan and Tarpan
During Pitru Paksha, devotees from different parts of India and abroad visit Gaya to perform Pind Daan and Tarpan rituals for their ancestors.
The rituals are performed at the Falgu River, Vishnupad Temple and various sacred ritual sites, known as vedis, across Gaya.
The annual gathering holds religious significance for Hindu devotees, who visit the city to offer prayers and perform ancestral rites during the auspicious period.
Tent City and Facilities Arranged for Pilgrims
The district administration has made extensive arrangements to accommodate the expected influx of pilgrims.
A tent city has been set up at Gandhi Maidan to provide temporary accommodation for devotees arriving from outside Gaya.
Arrangements have also been made for drinking water, sanitation, cleanliness, traffic management and security.
The administration is focusing on ensuring that essential facilities remain available and that pilgrims can perform religious rituals without unnecessary inconvenience.
Administration Focuses on Crowd Management and Safety
With large crowds expected at major religious sites, authorities are prioritising the smooth movement of devotees and the maintenance of public order throughout the fair.
The arrangements are intended to facilitate pilgrims visiting the Falgu River, Vishnupad Temple and other ritual sites during the 15-day event.
The district administration is also working to maintain essential services and ensure the smooth conduct of the Pitru Paksha Mela.
