Pind Daan is a ritual to honour and offer peace to departed ancestors. Rice balls (pinds) made of rice, barley flour, sesame and ghee are offered with prayers, often on a river bank. It is usually done by the son or a close family member, though customs vary.
When it is done
- During Pitru Paksha, the fortnight dedicated to ancestors.
- On the death anniversary (shraddh tithi) of a family member.
- After the death of a family member, as part of the final rites.
- On Amavasya, or during a pilgrimage to a sacred place.
Popular places for Pind Daan
- Gaya, Bihar: considered the most important place for Pind Daan.
- Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: on the ghats of the Ganga.
- Haridwar, Uttarakhand: at Har Ki Pauri and nearby ghats.
- Prayagraj, Ujjain, Nashik (Trimbakeshwar) and Badrinath (Brahma Kapal).
How to plan
- Decide the place and date, and check travel and stay, especially during Pitru Paksha crowds.
- Book a pandit in advance and share the names and gotra of the ancestors.
- Ask what samagri is needed and whether it is included in the price.
- Ask about dress (usually simple white or light clothes) and any fasting rules.
- Keep time for the ritual, a holy dip and a meal for Brahmins if your family follows that custom.