The ancient Hindu festival of Chhath Puja commenced with great fervor across Delhi as thousands of devotees gathered at various water bodies to offer their prayers to the Sun God. This four-day spiritual extravaganza, which began on Friday, marks one of the most significant festivals for communities originating from Bihar, Jharkhand, and Eastern Uttar Pradesh.
Sacred Rituals and Spiritual Significance
Devotees, predominantly women, observed strict fasting and performed elaborate rituals at designated ghats along the Yamuna River and other water bodies. The air filled with devotional Chhath songs as worshippers stood waist-deep in water, offering 'arghya' to the setting sun during the first phase of celebrations.
The four-day Chhath Puja follows a precise ritual sequence:
- Nahay Khay: Devotees take holy dips and prepare traditional meals
- Kharna: Day-long fasting followed by evening prayers
- Sandhya Arghya: Evening offerings to the setting sun
- Usha Arghya: Morning offerings to the rising sun
Delhi Prepares for Massive Celebrations
Authorities in Delhi have made extensive arrangements to ensure smooth celebrations across the city. Over 1,100 ghats have been prepared with proper lighting, sanitation facilities, and security measures. The Delhi Government has deployed more than 17,000 personnel to maintain law and order during the festival period.
"The devotion and spiritual energy during Chhath Puja is truly remarkable. Seeing thousands of people gathered at the riverbanks, united in their prayers, creates an atmosphere of pure divinity," shared a regular observer of the festival.
Environmental Consciousness and Cultural Heritage
This year, special emphasis has been placed on eco-friendly celebrations. Authorities have encouraged devotees to use traditional bamboo baskets instead of plastic and maintain cleanliness at the ghats. The festival not only represents religious devotion but also showcases the rich cultural heritage of Eastern Indian traditions.
The culmination of the festival will occur on Monday with devotees offering morning prayers to the rising sun, symbolizing the completion of the sacred rituals and seeking blessings for the well-being of their families and prosperity in life.
