The sacred festival of Chhath Puja has officially commenced across India, marking the beginning of four days of profound devotion and ancient rituals dedicated to the Sun God. Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his warm wishes to all devotees as the celebrations began with the traditional Nahay Khay ceremony.
Prime Minister's Heartfelt Message
In his message, PM Modi expressed his sincere greetings to those observing the sacred festival. "May the blessings of Chhath Maiya and the Sun God bring happiness, good health, and prosperity in everyone's life," the Prime Minister stated, emphasizing the cultural and spiritual significance of this ancient tradition.
The Four-Day Spiritual Journey Begins
The festival commenced with Nahay Khay, the first day of Chhath Puja, where devotees traditionally take a holy bath and prepare traditional meals. This initial ritual sets the tone for the days of rigorous fasting and worship that follow.
Traditional Rituals and Observances
Over the next four days, devotees will observe several key rituals:
- Nahay Khay: Holy bath and traditional meal preparation
- Kharna: Day-long fasting ending with evening prayers
- Sandhya Arghya: Evening offerings to the setting sun
- Usha Arghya: Morning offerings to the rising sun
Cultural Significance and Regional Celebrations
Chhath Puja holds special importance in states like Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Nepal. The festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm in communities across India, with devotees gathering at riverbanks, ponds, and other water bodies to offer their prayers to the Sun God.
The festival not only represents spiritual devotion but also showcases the rich cultural heritage of India, emphasizing the deep connection between nature and human life in traditional Indian beliefs.
