A unique display of devotion unfolded at the ongoing Pitrupaksha Mela in Gaya, Bihar, where pilgrims from across India and around the world have been gathering in large numbers to offer oblations to their ancestors. On Thursday, September 18, a group of 17 foreign pilgrims from Russia completed traditional Pind Daan rituals in Gayaji, adhering strictly to sacred Sanatana customs.
Rituals Conducted at Vishnupad and Akshaya Vat
The visiting contingent comprised 14 women among its 17 members. Throughout the ceremonial proceedings, every pilgrim was dressed in traditional Indian attire and wore a garland of Rudraksha beads around their neck. Under the ritual guidance and leadership of Acharya Madhav, the group completed every step of the ancestral offering. The sacred rites were observed at two of the holiest shrines in Gayaji, namely the Vishnupad temple premises and the Akshaya Vat, accompanied by their tour guide.
Regular Visits Since the Pandemic Era
Jitendra Tanwar, the group's guide, explained that all participants hail from Russia and share an immense reverence for Sanatana Dharma. Their spiritual connection with India has remained steady over time, as members of the group have been traveling to the country regularly since around the 2020 COVID period. They make it a point to visit India at least twice a year. Earlier this year in February, the same group traveled to Pushkar to conduct formal worship and religious prayers. The guide highlighted that these travelers exclusively tour spiritual locations and dedicate themselves strictly to practicing Sanatana Dharma.
Scriptural Knowledge and the Upcoming Char Dham Yatra
According to Tanwar, the group possesses extensive knowledge about Sanatana Dharma, having thoroughly read foundational Hindu scriptures including the Bhagavad Gita and the Vishnu Purana. All members are devoted followers of Lord Shiva. They arrived in Gayaji two days prior to the ceremony, and having completed their ancestral oblation rituals, they are preparing to set off on the Himalayan Char Dham circuit. In two days, the pilgrims will embark on their journey covering Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri.
Ancestral Roots Linked to Odisha
One notable background detail shared about the group involves an ancestral lineage tracing directly back to India. The ancestors of one traveler originally belonged to Odisha before eventually relocating and settling in Russia. A female descendant from that very lineage traveled with the group to offer Pind Daan for her departed forebears. This marked the very first visit to Gayaji for all members of the group. Sharing their reflections, the pilgrims noted feeling exceptionally fulfilled in Gayaji, describing the sacred site as the most revered destination for ancestral salvation. Across the current Pitrupaksha Mela season, total attendance has surpassed more than 25 lakh devotees from India and abroad.
