In Gaya town, Bihar, Mohammad Moinuddin play a vital role in providing items that Hindus need for their prayers at the Sri Vishnupad temple. This temple is a significant place for Hindus who come to perform Pind Daan rituals for their ancestors. The local authorities organise a special event called Pitrapaksha, which starts on September 17 and lasts for two weeks. During this time, many Hindus visit the temple to honour their ancestors.
Flower Cultivation in Chhathu Vigha
Chhathu Vigha, located just two kilometres from the Shri Vishnupad Mandir, is famous for its flower farming. For many years, flowers have been cultivated on about 20 acres of land in this area. Mohammad Moinuddin, a 62-year-old resident of Chhathu Vigha, has been growing flowers on seven acres of land for three generations. He cultivates various flowers, including jasmine, rose, marigold, hibiscus, and holy basil (Tulsi). The flowers and basil from his fields are offered at several temples, including Shri Vishnupad and Mangala Gauri. Moinuddin notes that the flowers from his fields have adorned the deity at Mangala Gauri Temple for many years.
Tradition and Growing Demand
Moinuddin’s grandfather, Sajlu Mian, began this flower farming tradition in 1942, inspired by the priest of Mangala Gauri Temple. Initially, the family grew fruits like mango and guava, but later switched to flowers. Moinuddin’s father, Alimuddin, continued this tradition and expanded the flower farming area in 1975 due to increasing demand. The flowers are especially sought after during the Pitrapaksha festival, as they are used in rituals to seek moksha for ancestors.
This year, around four lakh pilgrims visited Gaya to perform Shraddha for their ancestors. To assist these visitors, 45 Pidvedis were set up in different locations in Gaya Dham for worship and Pind Daan rituals. Moinuddin hopes that his son Rahimuddin will continue this family tradition of flower farming, ensuring that the legacy of providing for these important rituals continues.
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