New Delhi, November 7, 2024: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi extended heartfelt greetings to the nation on the auspicious occasion of Chhath Puja, expressing hopes that the festival of sun worship would bring renewed energy and strength to everyone. “Heartiest greetings on Chhath Puja, the great festival of sun worship and folk faith. I hope this festival brings new energy and strength in the lives of all of you,” Gandhi shared on X (formerly Twitter).
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also sent his warm wishes, saying, “With the blessings of Chhathi Maiya, may there be happiness and prosperity in the life of everyone in the state.”
Today marks the third day of the Chhath festival, known as Sandhya Arghya, when devotees perform rituals dedicated to the setting sun. At sunset, families gather at rivers, ponds, and other water bodies to offer fruits, sweets, and thekua as prasad to Lord Surya and Chhathi Maiya, accompanied by prayers and hymns.
Chhath Puja, a four-day festival, began with Nahay-Khay on the Chaturthi Tithi of Kartik Shukla Paksha, emphasizing purification and preparation. It continued with Kharna on Panchami Tithi and will conclude with the Usha Arghya on Saptami Tithi on November 8.
The festival, particularly popular in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, is marked by strict fasting and deep devotion to the Sun God for sustaining life on Earth. With high participation from women, Chhath Puja is also celebrated by the Indian diaspora in Nepal and around the world, bringing families together in prayer, worship, and gratitude.
