Pilgrims performed a Hindu ritual to honor the departed souls of their ancestors.

Ten foreign devotees from Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, and Africa performed 'pind daan' in Gaya, Bihar, on September 30.

Julia from Ukraine was one of them; she performed the ritual for the fourth time on Monday. They also prayed on Sunday for the end of the war between Russia and Ukraine.

They performed the rituals at Deo Ghat, on the banks of the Falgu River, at Vishnupad temple, and Akshaywat.

Following Sanatan tradition, the female pilgrims wore sarees, while the men were clad in dhotis.

After 'pind daan,' all these devotees offered puja at the footprint of Lord Vishnu in the sanctum sanctorum.

Their priest, Loknath Gaud, who guided them to perform the 'karmkand' said: 'These devotees are Christian by birth, but they have faith in Sanatan Dharma, and are living at Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh for many years.'

He added: 'Many people in Russia, Ukraine, Africa and other countries have been influenced by the positive effects of Sanatan Dharma, and they have come to Gaya to perform 'pind daan'. After performing the rituals, they have felt positive changes in their lives.'

Gaud, as a preacher, is associated with the Hindu Jagaran Samiti working in Ukraine.

Senior Superintendent of Police Ashish Bharti said: 'Security arrangements were made for these pilgrims at Deo Ghat and the Vishnupad temple. They were escorted up to the sanctum sanctorum of the Vishnupad temple.'

Pind Daan is a Hindu ritual that pays homage and offers prayers to departed ancestors. 'Pind' refers to a rounded heap of cooked rice and other sacred materials offered during the ceremony.

This ritual is believed to help the souls of deceased family members attain peace and salvation.