The sacred four-day Chhath Puja festival drew to a magnificent close today as millions of devotees across India gathered at riverbanks and water bodies to perform Usha Arghya, the final offering to the rising sun. This ancient Hindu festival, dedicated to Lord Surya (the Sun God) and Chhathi Maiya, concluded with breathtaking scenes of devotion and spiritual fervor.
A Spiritual Journey Across Four Days
The Chhath Puja festivities unfolded through a series of meticulously observed rituals:
- Nahay Khay - The first day marked purification through holy baths and simple meals
- Kharna - Devotees observed day-long fasting followed by evening prasad offerings
- Sandhya Arghya - Evening offerings to the setting sun amidst chanting and devotional songs
- Usha Arghya - The grand finale with morning offerings to the rising sun
The Grand Finale: Usha Arghya
As dawn broke on the final day, devotees gathered at water bodies, standing waist-deep in water with their offerings. The air resonated with ancient Chhath hymns and mantras as families offered prasad consisting of seasonal fruits, homemade sweets, and sugarcane in bamboo baskets to the first rays of the sun.
The spiritual significance of Usha Arghya lies in seeking blessings for prosperity, well-being, and the fulfillment of wishes. Devotees believe that offering prayers to the rising sun helps purify the mind, body, and soul while bringing positive energy into their lives.
Cultural Significance and Traditions
Chhath Puja holds special importance in Bihar, Jharkhand, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Nepal. The festival showcases the rich cultural heritage of these regions, with families passing down traditions through generations. The rigorous fasting and rituals demonstrate the deep-rooted faith and spiritual discipline of the devotees.
This year's celebrations saw massive participation despite pandemic concerns, with authorities making elaborate arrangements at ghats and ensuring safety protocols were followed. The sight of thousands of devotees offering prayers simultaneously created a mesmerizing panorama of faith and devotion.
