Phalgu River Ghat

The Phalgu River (also called Niranjana) is considered one of the most sacred rivers
for performing Pind Daan. Despite appearing dry on the surface for most of the year, water flows
beneath the sand, and this underground flow is considered sacred for rituals.

The main ghat along the Phalgu River is where thousands of devotees perform tarpan and pind daan
daily. During Pitru Paksha, the ghats become extremely crowded with devotees from across India.

The Phalgu River is believed to be cursed by Sita to flow underground. According
to the Ramayana, when Lord Rama was performing Shraddh for his father, Sita saw the spirit of
Dasharatha arise from the waters. Since Rama and Lakshmana were away gathering materials, Sita
offered pind daan herself with the Phalgu River, a Tulsi plant, and a cow as witnesses.

When Rama returned, none of these witnesses testified that the ritual had been performed, so
Sita cursed them. The river was cursed to flow underground.