Hindus in Mumbai, India, have performed rituals for their departed ancestors on the occasion of Mahalaya Amavasya, otherwise known as Sarvapitri Amavasya.
Sarvapitri Amavasya is the last day of the sixteen lunar day period that occurs yearly. Hindus perform rituals in the sacred Banganga Tank in the Indian capital to ensure that their ancestors’ souls go to heaven.
According to the scriptureMarkandeya Purana, if their ancestors are content with the offerings, they will reward the performer with wealth, good health, knowledge and salvation.
It’s estimated that anywhere from 5-75 million Hindus make the pilgrimage each year.