When is Narayan Bali Puja performed in Gaya?

While Narayan Bali can technically be performed in Gaya throughout the year (365 days), certain periods are considered more auspicious:

• Pitru Paksha: This 15/16 day period dedicated to ancestors is considered the most potent time. (In 2024, Pitru Paksha is tentatively from September 17th to October 2nd)
• Amavasya (New Moon), Poornima (Full Moon), Dwadashi (12th lunar day), Ashtami (8th lunar day).
• Specific auspicious Nakshatras (lunar mansions) like Kritika, Vishakha, Punarvasu, etc.
• Ideally, it can be performed on the 11th day after death, but it’s often done later when the need arises or is identified.
• It should generally be avoided during Grahan (eclipse) days, Ekadashi, Ashtami, and Dashami (though some sources list Ashtami as auspicious, so clarification with the performing pandit is recommended).