Pitru Paksha 2017: Pind Daan in Gaya – Things you need to know

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To help departed souls attain salvation, their kin observe Shraadha rituals, perform Tarpanam and do Pind Daanam annually, especially during the Pitru Paksha period which falls in September-October according to the Gregorian calendar.

This year, the Pitru Paksha commenced on September 5 and shall culminate with Mahalaya Amavaysa on September 19.

According to Drikpanchang, Pitru Paksha falls in the lunar month of Bhadrapada beginning with the full moon day or day after full moon day in the South Indian Amavasyant calendar while this period falls in the lunar month of Ashwin beginning with the full moon day in Bhadrapada or next day of full moon day in the North Indian Purnimant calendar.

A number of people do Pind Daanam in Gaya, which is believed to be one of the holiest places to perform Shraadha rituals.

Pind daanam facilitates the creation of an atmosphere that helps departed souls attain Moksha by freeing themselves from the materialistic world. Until they get liberated from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, they shall roam around anxiously and continue to exist in a state of complete despair.

Pind are balls made of rice flour, wheat, sesame seeds, honey and milk. Seven pinds are made and offered to the departed souls during Shraadha.

In Gaya, Pinds are offered to the footprint of Lord Vishnu near river Falgu, Akshay Vat, Mangala Gowri and a few other holy places.

If you wish to do Pind Daan in Gaya, you can choose the 7th, 5th, 3rd or 1st day of Amavasya with Krishna Paksha in any of the months according to the Hindu calendar or during the Pitru Paksha Mela held annually. You may consult your family priest to help you chose the appropriate date.

The Shraadha is completed after observing the following rituals – Snana (bathing) and Sankalpa (determination), Pind Daanam and finally Tarpanam.