Prapita Maheshwar Temple

One of the oldest temples in Gaya, Prapita Maheshwar Temple is another notable ancient religious site dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is popular among the people who visit the city for Pind Daan (a religious ritual performed for the peace of the souls of the dead) as Lord Prapita Maheshwar is considered to be the witnessing deity of this ritual.

One of the oldest temples in Gaya, Prapita Maheshwar Temple is another notable ancient religious site dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is popular among the people who come to the city for Pind Daan (a religious ritual performed for the peace of the souls of the dead) as Lord Prapita Maheshwar is considered to be the witnessing deity of this ritual. The temple is also mentioned in the Hindu scripture Agni Purana.

Shri Ram had performed Shraddha of King Dasharatha at this holy place.

Prapita Maheshwar Temple located in Gaya, the land of sacred salvation, is a major Vaishnava temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Shiva is worshiped in the form of ‘Lingam’ in Maheshwar temple. Devotees coming here get salvation and relief from many diseases. Pind Daan is offered to the ancestors in this ancient temple mentioned in Agni Purana. It is believed that this temple was established in the 11th century under the leadership of the Pala dynasty. The present form of the temple is the result of restoration work done in the 14th century. This grand temple made of black stones is situated near two mountain ranges Brahmayoni and Vasmakuta. The Sabhamandap built in the courtyard of the temple is adorned with huge stone pillars which enhances its grandeur.

importance of gaya

According to Vedic tradition and Hindu beliefs, performing Shraddha for ancestors is a great and excellent work. Gaya is also famous for Pitru Daan. Even Lord Ram has praised the glory of the Shraddha performed in Gaya. It is said that Lord Ram and Sitaji also performed Pind Daan in Gaya for the peace of the soul of King Dasharatha. According to the belief, the sonship of a son is considered meaningful only when he serves his living parents during his lifetime and after their death, he performs Shraddha as per their rituals on the date of their death and in Mahalaya (Pitrapaksha). On the occasion of Pitru Paksha, thousands of devotees gather here for Pind Daan.