Gaya, Sep 09 (ANI): Devout Hindus gathered at temples and river banks in Bihar to observe fortnight-long Hindu ritual of paying homage to departed souls and ancestors. 'Pitru Paksha' is marked annually, where family members offer food to ancestors. Traditionally, the eldest son or member of a family performs the ritual. Guided by priests, families performed religious rituals on the banks of River Ganges in Gaya district and other temples located in the city. The food is usually cooked in silver or copper vessels and placed on banana leaves. The offerings are also believed to cure diseases as well as infertility, apart from driving away evil souls.