In Hinduism, Pind Daan is a sacred ritual performed to bring peace to the souls of our ancestors, as per the ancient scriptures and beliefs.
This year, the Shraaddh, or Pind Daan, will take place from September 29th to October 14th.
During this period, thousands of people from all over the country and abroad visit various places to offer Pind Daan to their forefathers.
Pind Daan Ritual Across Different Locations
Apart from the well-known destinations for Pind Daan like Haridwar, Ayodhya, and Varanasi,
there’s a special place where performing Pind Daan is believed to grant salvation to our ancestors. Let’s explore this unique location.
Pind Daan in Bodh Gaya, Bihar
Yes, we are talking about Bodh Gaya in Bihar. This sacred city witnesses thousands of people from all over the world performing Pind Daan daily.
Bodh Gaya is not only a hub for Pind Daan but is also known as the city of Lord Buddha. It holds significant religious importance for Buddhists worldwide.
The Mythical Tale of Bodh Gaya
Bodh Gaya is the place where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. This makes Bodh Gaya highly revered among Buddhist monks and followers.
It is believed that around 531 BC, Lord Buddha achieved enlightenment on the banks of the Phalgu River.
Many people come here to perform Pind Daan rituals by the riverbank. This practice is mentioned in the Ramayana and the Mahabharata as well.
Therefore, during the Pitru Paksha period, many individuals choose to offer Pind Daan near the Phalgu River in Bodh Gaya.
Accommodation and Dining in Bodh Gaya
Finding affordable accommodation in Bodh Gaya is easy. Guesthouses and hotels like Hotel Morya Heritage, Guest House,
and Rama Guest House offer rooms ranging from 400 to 700 rupees. These accommodations are conveniently located near the Mahabodhi Temple.
Bodh Gaya also offers a variety of dining options, from small eateries to larger restaurants, where you can easily fill your stomach for under 100 rupees.
How to Reach Bodh Gaya
You can reach Bodh Gaya by various means:
- By Air: The Gaya Domestic Airport is approximately 14 kilometers away from the city center. It has limited flights, with connections to Kolkata, an international airport.
- By Train: Gaya Junction Railway Station is 15 kilometers away and well-connected to major cities in Bihar and India.
- By Road: Bodh Gaya is accessible by road from many major cities in India, thanks to Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation, which provides deluxe bus services twice a day for tourists.