Nationwide Festivities and Devotee Gatherings
Chhath Puja, one of India’s most revered festivals dedicated to Sun God and Chhathi Maiya, was celebrated with immense zeal, devotion, and joy across the country. From Bihar and Jharkhand to Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Noida, Chandigarh, and Mumbai, devotees thronged the ghats from early morning to participate in the sacred rituals. Prominent locations such as Guru Gorakhnath Ghat in Gorakhpur, Kankarbagh and Digha Ghats in Patna, and Kalindi Kunj Ghat in Noida saw thousands of families offering prayers together.
Rituals, Devotional Songs, and Traditional Decor
The ghats reverberated with the sounds of devotional songs and the rhythmic beats of dholaks. Altars were beautifully adorned with bananas and other traditional offerings, reflecting the cultural richness and spiritual fervor of Chhath Puja. Devotees performed rituals with utmost dedication, creating a serene and divine atmosphere along the riverbanks.
Participation of Political Leaders and Administration
Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya joined the puja at the residence of BJP leader Sanjay Mayukh, demonstrating the festival’s wide-reaching significance. Authorities ensured special security and arrangements to maintain a safe and smooth celebration.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to participate in Chhath Puja at Vasudev Ghat on the Yamuna River in Delhi, with security arrangements heightened in anticipation of his visit. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta personally visited the ghats to oversee preparations, emphasizing the importance of a well-organized celebration.
Political Presence at Chhath Puja in Bihar
This year, Chhath Puja also carried a political undertone in Bihar, as candidates from multiple parties seeking assembly seats visited the ghats to seek blessings from devotees. Their presence added a unique dimension to the festivities, blending faith with the democratic spirit of the region.
Concluding Celebrations and Nationwide Devotion
The four-day festival culminated with the worship of Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya, immersing the nation once again in colors of faith, devotion, and unity. Across major cities and towns such as Patna, Gopalganj, Mau, Varanasi, Noida, and Delhi, the ghats witnessed massive gatherings of devotees for morning and evening prayers, reflecting the enduring spirit and cultural significance of Chhath Puja.
