Hindus perform sacred rituals in holy cities as Pitru Paksha period begins

Religious cities like Prayagraj, Varanasi, and Haridwar witnessed large gatherings of Hindu devotees as Pitru Paksha, a 16-day period in the Hindu calendar dedicated to paying homage to one's ancestors, began on Sunday.

During these spiritually significant days, families across the region perform special rituals, which are believed to bring peace and prosperity to the departed souls in the afterlife.

Prayagraj is one of the main pilgrimage sites for the rituals. On Sunday morning, hundreds gathered along the banks of the Sangam to take part in them.