Chhath Puja 2024: Devotees get set to seek blessings from the setting sun at grand Chhath celebration

Patna — The third day of Chhath Puja - an occasion more revered for austerity and devotion than most others - is being marked today. As the Mahaparv of Chhath gathers steam, millions of devotees will offer the first Arghya to the sun god as it sets. This evening tradition is one of thanksgiving to Surya and obeisance to his divine sister Chhathi Maiya, at least so far as the mythology goes, who granted families health and prosperity.

Even Arghya: Time and Ritual

The evening Arghya is known as Astachalgami Arghya. On Thursday, November 7, 2024, it will be offered at 17:31 PM with sunset start. Devotees will then rise to their knee in the water at river banks, ponds or specially prepared artificial ponds and pray for the wellbeing of their family. These comprise thekua, a sweet dish prepared with wheat flour, sugarcane juice, and seasonal fruits offered to the Sun God as symbols of devotion and gratitude.

Gargi Ghats of Patna Prepared on an Immense Scale

In Patna, more than 108 ghats prepared by the district administration are ready to cater to the devotees. More than 60 artificial ponds are also ready in the city as Patna's municipal corporation made arrangements for the anticipated rush and hitch-free ritual for the devotees. It is prepared that safety and security would be given top priority, as there would be dedicated parking facilities available for the most popular ghats, especially at Digha, where place is on offer for 25,000 vehicles.

Restrictions on Unorganized Boat Traffic and Safety Arrangements

Safety has also been ensured by curtailing unorganized activities of boating on the Ganges and having stationed the National Disaster Response Force team at every ghat. Fireworks are strictly not allowed anywhere close to the ghats, for safety as much as out of respect for the sanctity of religious rites. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar personally inspected the ghats in a steamer and called for a sense of order with an emphasis on devotees' safety.

Importance of Chhath Puja

Ancient Rituals- Chhath Puja: According to the ancient rituals, it is the festival that thanks Surya for preserving life on the earth. Along with the worship of Sun God, the followers also worship Chhathi Maiya that keeps the families healthy, prosperous, and happy. As it is said, the wishes get true and peace arrives in the family making this one of the most spiritually significant festivals of Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh.

Why Chhath is Celebrated

Chhath Puja is highly cultural and spiritual. The ritual remembers Surya Dev-the life-giver-and Chhathi Maiya, who protects and gives good fortune to children. People think that the puja of Chhath, if performed with devotion, brings peace, prosperity, and fulfils all their desires. It appears to be a thought-provoking act of bonding with nature, family, and tradition.

As the Puja goes on, people rise early to pay Usha Arghya to the rising sun, thus culminating their Puja. This holy Puja strengthens the community's spiritual relationship and manifests as a prayer for the good and welfare of all.

Also read: Chhath Puja 2024: Are Banks Closed? See State-Wise Holiday Calendar!