The annual Pitru Paksha Mela 2025 is set to take place in Gaya Ji, a sacred site for Hindus, from September 6th to September 21st. This year, the event will introduce online Pind Daan services, expanding access for devotees worldwide. The Pind Daan ceremony is a significant tradition for Hindus, honoring ancestors and seeking their liberation.
In a move to accommodate those unable to travel to Gaya Ji, the Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation (BSTDC) will provide online Pind Daan. Individuals can now perform rituals and offer prayers for their departed loved ones from the comfort of their homes, regardless of location or constraints.
The online service offers a comprehensive package priced at Rs 23,000, which includes all necessary puja materials, the services of a priest, and the complete religious ceremony. The Pind Daan will be performed at three prominent sites: the Vishnupad Temple, Akshaya Vat, and the Falgu River. A recording of the entire process will be provided via a pen drive.
The service extends beyond India, reaching devotees in the United States, Europe, the Gulf countries, and Asia. This online initiative aims to amplify the cultural and religious significance of Gaya Ji on a global scale.
Online bookings will be available starting August 25th or 26th via the BSTDC’s official website. According to Nagendra Kumar, an official with the corporation, the online service has already attracted a large number of devotees and continues to grow in popularity.
Beyond its religious aspect, the Pitru Paksha Mela embodies the reverence for ancestors deeply rooted in Indian culture. The event reinforces Gaya Ji’s standing as a vital religious heritage site and a hub of cultural unity. Modern technology is helping to broaden the reach of this age-old practice.
Kumar anticipates that this year’s Pitru Paksha Mela will extend beyond Gaya Ji, reaching devotees globally through the online platform. He noted significant interest in the service, with numerous inquiries already being received.
District Magistrate Shashank Kumar is overseeing the preparations, including the setting up of tents and barricades. These arrangements are expected to be finalized by August 29th, ensuring a seamless experience for both in-person and online participants.
However, Premnath Taiya, a member of the Vishnupad Management Committee, opposes the online Pind Daan policy, viewing it as an attempt to diminish traditional Sanatani culture. Taiya emphasizes the belief that performing Tarpan in the Falgu River is crucial for ancestral liberation. He fears the online system threatens the cultural practices and traditions of the Panda community, potentially impacting their livelihoods. Taiya and the community plan to take legal action if the online process is not revoked, with the goal of safeguarding their customs.