One of the holiest places considered for performing Pinda Daan and Pitru Paksha Shradh – the annual rites and rituals for dead ancestors, parents and relatives – is the Vishnupad Temple at Gaya dedicated to Bhagavan Vishnu. The popular belief is that Bhagavan Sri Ram and Mata Sita performed Pitr Paksha Shraddh and Pind Daan for King Dasharatha at Vishnupad Temple on the banks of Falgu River .
Legend has it that Vishnupad Temple was endowed with the power to cleanse devotees of their earthly sins by Bhagavan Vishnu. Therefore it is believed that funeral ceremonies and Shraddha rites performed here will help the dead ancestors achieve moksha.
The Pitru Paksha rituals at Gaya Vishnupad Temple are held on the banks of Falgu River .