Gaya is a sacred place known as a Punya Kshetra where the Pind Daan Ceremony is performed. This ceremony involves offering food to one’s ancestors in the Pithru Lok (ancestral realm) as a means to satisfy their atma (soul), thereby enabling us to receive the blessings of our ancestors, or Pitrus.

Gaya’s name has its origins in the demon Gayasur, whom Lord Vishnu defeated by applying the pressure of His foot. This act transformed Gayasur into the series of rocky hills that now shape the landscape of Gaya city. Some important places in Gaya include:

• Vishnu Pad
• Akshay Vat
• Falgu River

Pind Daan is a ceremony performed for the departed soul, and it is conducted every year on the same tithi (date) as the one on which the soul passed away. Conducting the Gaya Pind Daan ceremony with unwavering faith and a tranquil mind ensures that the Karta (the individual performing the ritual) receives the full benefits of the ceremony, and the blessings of their ancestors remain with them. Performing Gaya Tirth Pind Daan is believed to assist the departed souls in reaching the Pitru Lok (ancestral realm).