Gaya Janardan Temple is the only temple where a living person performs their own Shradh (Atma Shraddha), meaning they perform their own Pind Daan while still alive. This temple is situated to the north of the Mangala Gauri Temple on the Bhasma Koot Mountain in Gaya, Bihar.
Who Performs the Self Shraddha Pind Daan?
Generally, people who have no children or have no one left
in their family to perform their Pind Daan come here. Also, those who have
renounced worldly life (Vairagya) or those who do not have a family, also
perform their Pind Daan at this temple. The belief here is that Lord Janardan
himself accepts the Pind offerings, leading the person to liberation (Moksha)
and freedom from ancestral debts.
Special Features of the Temple
The Janardan Temple is an ancient temple, built entirely
from rocks. A divine idol of Lord Vishnu in the form of Janardan is enshrined
here. At this temple, people perform both their own Pind Daan and the Shradh
for their ancestors.
The Process of Atma Shradh
People who come to perform their Pind Daan and Shradh here
first take a vow of Vaishnav Siddhi and atone for their sins. After that, they
worship Lord Janardan at the temple following all the prescribed rituals,
including chanting. Then, three Pinds made from curd and rice are offered to
the deity, and sesame seeds (til) are not used in this process. While offering
the Pind, the person prays to the deity, seeking liberation and Moksha. The Atma
Shradh (ritual for oneself) lasts for three days.