Guide to Finding Your Tirtha Purohit in Gaya for Pitru Paksha 2026

As Pitru Paksha approaches in 2026, thousands of devotees are expected to make their way to Gaya, Bihar, between September 27 and October 10. This period is significant for Hindus who seek to perform Pind Daan and Shraddha rituals to honor their ancestors. The rituals are deeply rooted in tradition and are believed to provide spiritual benefits, including the salvation of ancestors and relief from Pitrudosh, which is thought to bring peace and prosperity to families. The pilgrimage to Gaya during this time is not just a journey; it is a profound spiritual obligation for many families across India.

For those visiting Gaya for the first time or returning after several years, a common question arises: how can one find their family’s Tirtha Purohit? According to Swami Venkatesh Prapannacharya Maharaj, who leads the Ramanuja Matha located near the Vishnupad Temple, the Tirtha Purohits in Gaya have been performing these sacred rituals for generations. Each priest typically serves families from specific regions, maintaining a historical connection that spans decades or even centuries. These priests keep meticulous records known as Panji, which document vital information about families, including their ancestors, village origins, district affiliations, gotra, and the dates of previous Pind Daan ceremonies. Many of these genealogical records are remarkably old, with some dating back 200 to 400 years, thus forming an essential aspect of Gaya’s rich religious heritage.