Is President Murmu Visiting Gaya Today for Ancestral Rituals?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- President Murmu’s visit underscores cultural heritage.
- Gaya is vital for ancestral rituals in Hinduism.
- Vishnupad Temple is a key pilgrimage site.
- Extensive security measures are in place.
- Public access is managed with alternate routes.
New Delhi, Sep 20 (NationPress) President Droupadi Murmu is set to visit Gaya on Saturday to conduct ancestral rituals at the revered Vishnupad Temple.
During her visit, the President will perform 'Pind Daan' and 'Tarpan', traditional Hindu rites aimed at ensuring the peace of departed souls and seeking salvation for her ancestors.
This visit is significant as Gaya is recognized as one of the most sacred sites in Hinduism, particularly for performing ancestral ceremonies.
The Vishnupad Temple, located along the banks of the Falgu River, holds great religious importance and draws devotees nationwide during the ongoing Pitru Paksha period.
As stated by Rashtrapati Bhavan, "The President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, will visit Gaya, Bihar, tomorrow (September 20, 2025) to perform puja at the Shri Vishnupad Temple."
The President will travel from Gaya Airport to the temple using a specially designated route that includes Gate No. 5, a bypass, Narayani Bridge, and Bengali Ashram.
She will return to the airport by the same route. To support her visit, the local administration and police in Gaya have implemented a comprehensive security and traffic management plan.
Several roads around the temple and in the city have been temporarily closed to general traffic. These affected routes include those from Domuhan to Sikariya Mod, Gate No. 5 to City Public School, and Chand Chaura to Bengali Ashram.
However, alternative routes have been arranged for the public, including the Bodh Gaya–Four Lane route connecting Gulharia Chak Mod, Chakand railway crossing, Kandi Nawada, Kukra Mod, Mehta Petrol Pump, and City Public School.
In proximity to the temple, drop gates have been established, allowing visitors to proceed on foot from those points.
Authorities have guaranteed that robust security measures are in place, with a level of protection described as "not even a bird can fly" to ensure the President's safety and the smooth flow of pilgrims.