Govt online pind daan scheme sparks dissent in Gaya
Abdul Qadir TNN 26.08.2025
Gaya : A recent initiative by Bihar’s tourism department to introduce an online Pind Daan service has sparked strong opposition from traditional stakeholders in Gaya, including the Gayawal Pandas (priests) and VHP. The scheme, aimed at facilitating remote participation in the sacred Pitrapaksh rituals, has been criticised for undermining religious traditions. Under the new scheme, people unable to visit Gaya in person can opt for Pind Daan rituals by paying a one-time fee of Rs 23,000. Local priests perform the rites on behalf of absentee devotees, and a video recording of the ceremony is provided via a pen drive. The department has also launched an online portal to book these services ahead of Pitrapaksh, which begins on Sept 6. However, the move has drawn sharp criticism. Gaya Town MLA and cooperative minister Prem Kumar acknowledged the concerns raised by the Pandas and assured that their sentiments would be respected. He said the matter would be reviewed at the appropriate level. VHP district president Mani Lal Barik condemned the concept, citing religious texts such as the Garuda Purana, which stipulate that only a son or male descendant can perform Pind Daan in person. “The rituals must be conducted at sacred altars like Vishnupad, Falgu, and Akshay Vat. Performing them remotely contradicts the scriptures,” Barik said, adding that he has formally registered his opposition. Echoing similar sentiments, Mahesh Lal Guput, a respected Panda with religious clients across Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Nepal, questioned the authenticity of online rituals.
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