Chhath Puja concluded with the rising sun on Tuesday, marking the end of a sacred four-day festival. Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended heartfelt greetings to all devotees and fasting individuals who participated in this spiritual observance. He acknowledged the dedication of every countryman involved in the rituals, celebrating the divine traditions upheld during this time.
The Prime Minister highlighted the divine manifestation witnessed throughout the Chhath Puja celebrations. This grand tradition showcases deep cultural roots and spiritual significance for millions of participants across the nation. The festival’s conclusion brought a sense of fulfillment and spiritual completion to devotees.
After four days of intense devotion and fasting, the rituals reached their climax with morning prayers. Chhath Puja occurs annually after Diwali, dedicated to expressing gratitude to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya. Devotees seek blessings for health, wealth, and prosperity through these ancient practices.
Prime Minister Modi shared his message on social media platform X, expressing his sentiments about the festival’s conclusion. He emphasized the auspicious nature of the morning offering to Lord Surya that marked the festival’s end. His words reflected deep respect for the traditions and participants.
The Chhath Puja celebration holds particular importance in the Hindu calendar. It falls on the sixth day of Kartik month’s Shukla Paksha, typically six days after Diwali festivities. This timing connects it to other significant cultural events in the Hindu tradition.
The four-day ritual follows a structured pattern of observances and offerings. It begins with Nahay Khay, when devotees take holy dips and prepare simple meals. This initial phase sets the spiritual tone for the days to follow.
Kharna marks the second day of celebrations. Devotees observe a day-long fast from morning to evening on this day. The fast concludes with offerings of rasiya, a sweet porridge, and roti to maintain the ritual’s purity.
Sandhya Arghya begins on the third day, initiating the nirjala vrat. This waterless fast represents one of the most challenging aspects of the observance. Devotees maintain this strict fast until the early hours of the fourth day.
Usha Arghya forms the final and most significant part of the ritual. Devotees gather before sunrise to offer prayers to the rising sun. This concluding ceremony represents the culmination of their spiritual efforts.
The origins of Chhath Puja trace back to ancient times with deep mythological roots. According to legend, Lord Rama and Goddess Sita performed the first Chhath Puja after returning to Ayodhya. They sought blessings from the Sun God for prosperity and wellbeing.
Chhath Puja remains one of the most significant Hindu festivals today. It is primarily observed in Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh. The tradition has also spread to Nepal and Indian communities worldwide.
Early Tuesday morning witnessed massive gatherings at riverbanks across multiple states. Devotees assembled for Usha Arghya as the sun began to rise. The atmosphere filled with devotion and spiritual energy.
Images from various states showed women standing in cold water, completely immersed in their prayers. Their dedication reflected the deep cultural significance of Chhath Puja. The rising sun witnessed countless offerings and prayers across the nation.
The Prime Minister’s message concluded with blessings for all participants. He expressed hope that Chhathi Maiya’s infinite blessings would always illuminate their lives. This sentiment resonated with devotees completing their spiritual journey.