The Chhath Mahaparv, a four-day festival dedicated to the Sun God, concluded today with devotees offering prayers and performing rituals to bid farewell to the setting sun. The festival is primarily celebrated in the state of Bihar, India, with millions of devotees gathering at various river banks and ghats in cities like Patna to pay their respects to the Sun God. The festival holds immense religious significance and is considered one of the most important festivals in the region.
During the festival, devotees observe fasts and carry out various rituals to express their gratitude and seek blessings from the Sun God. They wake up early in the morning and take a dip in the holy river, followed by offering prayers and performing arghya (offering of water) to the rising and setting sun. The arghya is made by placing fruits, sweets, and earthen lamps on small bamboo rafts and releasing them into the river. This ritual is believed to cleanse the mind, body, and soul and bring prosperity and happiness to the devotees’ lives.
The festival is known for its rigorous fasting and strict rituals. Devotees abstain from consuming food and water for a period of around 36 hours and endure various physical hardships during this time. They also maintain cleanliness and purity throughout the festival and follow certain dietary restrictions. The festival is not only a religious event but also a time for family and community bonding, as devotees come together to celebrate and share the joy of the festival.
The conclusion of the Chhath Mahaparv marks the end of the festivities, with devotees expressing their gratitude to the Sun God for the blessings received during the festival. The event witnesses massive crowds at various river banks and ghats, where devotees come dressed in traditional attire and perform traditional songs and dances. The festival is not only a celebration of faith but also a reflection of the rich cultural heritage of Bihar. With the conclusion of the Chhath Mahaparv, devotees now eagerly await the arrival of the festival next year.
