Pitru Paksha: Why Is Pind Daan At Punpun River Performed Before Gaya? Know Its Significance
Pitru Paksha, also known as Shraddha Paksha, is a significant period in the Hindu calendar dedicated to remembering and honouring ancestors. In 2026, Pitru Paksha begins on September 26 and is observed for around 16 lunar days. During this period, families perform Shraddha rituals and offer food, water and prayers for departed ancestors. In 2026, the ancestors' period has already started from…
Pitru Paksha, or Shraddha Paksha, is a 16-day Hindu period dedicated to remembering and honoring ancestors. In 2026, it began on September 26 and will continue for around that time. Among its rituals, the first pind daan (offering of food and water to ancestors) is traditionally performed at the Punpun River in Bihar before heading to Gaya.
The Punpun River, a 200-235 km tributary of the Ganges, rises in Jharkhand's Palamu district. Hindus believe that starting the pind daan at Punpun is significant as it marks the beginning of an ancestor's journey. Devotees offer pind (rice-based offerings) and water, making it a sacred step in the ancestral rites process.
Gaya, with its Vishnupad Temple and Falgu River, is considered one of the most important pilgrimage sites for pind daan. Hindus believe performing rites at Gaya can offer moksha (liberation) to departed souls. Thousands of devotees visit during Pitru Paksha, following the Punpun-Gaya route as part of their traditional pilgrimage.
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