Chaiti Chhath Begins: Devotion by Ganga's Holy Waters

The four-day Chhath festival commenced on Sunday, March 23, 2026, with the 'nahay-khay' rituals. Celebrated with great fervor across eastern India, this observance symbolizes profound gratitude towards nature, the sun, and water. Devotees gathered at the Ganga River ghats for holy dips, engaging in prayers to the sun God.

During the 'nahay-khay' phase, worshippers undertook spiritual cleansing, bathing in the sacred waters and cleaning their vessels. Strict purity was maintained in food preparation, with Ganga water and pure ghee used for the 'maha-prasad'. Families congregated, filling homes with festivity and traditional songs.

The festival emphasizes purity in all aspects, from food to rituals. Wheat for 'prasad' is meticulously washed and guarded against contamination. The dietary practices during this time, including specific vegetables and pulses, are believed to offer health benefits, curing ailments and enhancing well-being.

Chhath puja is dedicated to Lord Surya, revered as a visible deity. Observing this fast is believed to bring prosperity, peace, and good health, alleviating hardships for devotees and their children. The festival is set to conclude on March 25 with the morning 'arghya' to the sun God.