New Delhi: The grand festival of faith, Chhath Puja, commenced on Saturday with the sacred ritual of Nahay-Khay. The four-day-long festival is being celebrated with deep devotion and enthusiasm across Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and around the world.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his warm greetings to the nation on the occasion of Chhath Puja. He said, “With the auspicious ritual of Nahay-Khay, the four-day-long grand festival of Chhath begins today. My heartfelt best wishes to all devotees across the country, especially those in Bihar. I bow in reverence to all who are observing the fast.”
Posting on social media platform X, PM Modi wrote that this magnificent festival of Indian culture represents simplicity and self-discipline, whose purity and adherence to tradition are unparalleled. He added that the scenes witnessed at Chhath ghats on this holy occasion are a wonderful reflection of family and social harmony.
Highlighting the deep cultural roots of the festival, the Prime Minister stated that Chhath’s ancient tradition has had a profound influence on Indian society. “Today, Chhath is celebrated as a grand cultural festival across the world. Indian families living abroad also participate in its traditions with heartfelt devotion. I pray that Chhathi Maiya bestows her abundant blessings upon everyone,” he said.
PM Modi described Chhath as a unique confluence of faith, devotion, and love for nature. While devotees offer arghya (sacred offerings) to the Sun God, the prasad (holy offerings) embodies the diverse colors of nature. He further added that the songs and melodies of Chhath Puja are filled with the spirit of devotion and reverence for nature. “On this grand occasion, I am sharing some traditional songs of Chhathi Maiya that are sure to enchant every listener,” he wrote.
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar also conveyed his greetings on X, writing, “On the auspicious occasion of the four-day-long festival of people’s faith—Chhath Mahaparv—I extend my heartfelt wishes to all the people of the state and the country. This great festival of public devotion is one of self-discipline, where people, with pure hearts and sincere minds, offer arghya to both the setting and rising Sun.”
He further prayed to Lord Bhaskar (the Sun God) for the progress, happiness, peace, and prosperity of the state on this sacred occasion of Chhath Mahaparv.
