New Delhi – Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath sent a video greeting on X to mark Chhath Puja, wishing all devotees “May Chhathi Maiya’s blessings be upon you all.” He added personal thanks to mothers and sisters who fast hard for their families’ wellbeing.
In his post, Yogi highlighted Chhath Puja as a mix of faith and discipline. “Through Surya Upasana, the Sun God reminds us of light, energy and balance,” he said. “It is not just a festival; it is the soul of our culture. May every fasting devotee find success, health, wealth, and happiness.” He closed with the hope that the tradition continues for generations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took to X at dawn, welcoming the start of the four‑day chariot‑style celebration known as Nahay Khaay. “Today marks the beginning of our grand Chhath festival,” the PM wrote. “My heartfelt greetings to all devotees, especially in Bihar, and my respect to those observing the fast.”
Modi praised Chhath as a symbol of simplicity, restraint and purity. “The ghats today spark inspiration for family and social harmony,” he added. He also remembered Bhojpuri folk singer Sharda Sinha, who had deep ties to Begusarai, and shared a song from her repertoire that was performed last year’s festival.
The festival’s first day sees devotees called “Vratis” take a holy dip in rivers or ponds, then enjoy a sattvic meal of plain rice and bottle‑gourd curry, followed by traditional prasad such as chana dal, amla chutney and papad. Crowds line up at bathing ghats across the country to observe strict fasting and offer prayers to the rising and setting Sun.
Rooted in ancient Satyuga and Dwapara Yuga lore, Chhath Puja ranks among the oldest Sun‑worship festivals. Devotees seek prosperity, health and peace through their disciplined fasting and Sun rituals. Though mainly celebrated in Bihar, Jharkhand and eastern Uttar Pradesh, the festival also finds followers in Nepal and among Indian communities worldwide.
Source: ianslive
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