How are People in Mauritius and Australia Celebrating Chhath Puja?
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Synopsis
Chhath Puja, a revered Hindu festival, was celebrated in Mauritius and Australia with great enthusiasm and reverence. This four-day festival, dedicated to the Sun God, brought together communities to honor traditions and promote sustainability. Join us as we explore the vibrant celebrations and cultural significance of this auspicious occasion.
Key Takeaways
- Chhath Puja is celebrated with devotion in Mauritius and Australia.
- The festival emphasizes environmental sustainability.
- It promotes gender participation and social inclusion.
- Rich cultural performances highlight traditional practices.
- Chhath Puja connects communities across the globe.
Port Louis, Oct 28 (NationPress) The vibrant festival of Chhath Puja was joyously celebrated in both Mauritius and Australia on Tuesday, marking the end of this four-day sacred occasion with deep devotion and festive spirit.
Chhath Puja, one of the most important Hindu celebrations, primarily takes place in Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh. It also finds its place in parts of Nepal and amongst Indian communities across the globe.
The Indian High Commissioner to Mauritius, Anurag Srivastava, participated in the Chhath Mahaparv festivities on Tuesday.
Organized by the Swastikam Foundation in Mauritius, the event saw the attendance of Mauritian President Dharambeer Gokhool, Members of Parliament, and numerous dignitaries.
During his address, Srivastava highlighted the Indian government's initiative to include Chhath Puja in UNESCO's list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
He also pointed out the festival's significant contributions towards environmental sustainability, gender participation, and social inclusion.
In Australia, the Indian community in Melbourne gathered to commemorate the auspicious festival.
The Indian Consul General in Melbourne, Sushil Kumar, along with local dignitaries, including MP Lee Tarlamis, and community members, joined in the lively Chhath Puja celebrations, paying respects to the Sun God.
The event featured captivating cultural performances by an ICCR-sponsored troupe led by Nitu Kumari Nootan, showcasing the rich traditions from Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh.
According to the Hindu calendar, Chhath Puja occurs on the sixth day (Shashthi Tithi) of the Kartik month's Shukla Paksha, typically six days after Diwali. The celebration lasts four days, beginning with Nahay Khay and culminating with Usha Arghya, the prayer offerings to the rising sun.
The festivities kick off with Nahay Khay (October 25), when devotees take a sacred dip and prepare a simple meal. The second day, Kharna (October 26), involves a full-day fast from morning till evening, concluding with offerings of rasiya (sweet porridge) and roti. The third day features Sandhya Arghya, during which the 'nirjala vrat' (fast without water) is observed, lasting until the early hours of the fourth day (Usha Arghya).
Chhath Puja is believed to have its roots in ancient traditions. Legend states that Lord Rama and Goddess Sita performed the first Chhath Puja after their return to Ayodhya to seek blessings from the Sun God for abundance.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the cultural significance of Chhath Puja, celebrated by communities in Mauritius and Australia. The festival not only fosters a sense of belonging among the Indian diaspora but also emphasizes values such as environmental sustainability and social inclusion. Documenting such events is vital for a comprehensive understanding of global cultural practices.
NationPress
30/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chhath Puja?
Chhath Puja is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to the worship of the Sun God, celebrated primarily in Bihar, Jharkhand, and parts of Uttar Pradesh and Nepal.
When is Chhath Puja celebrated?
Chhath Puja falls on the sixth day of the Kartik month's Shukla Paksha, usually occurring six days after Diwali.
What are the main rituals of Chhath Puja?
The festival includes four days of rituals, starting with Nahay Khay, followed by Kharna, Sandhya Arghya, and concluding with Usha Arghya, where devotees offer prayers to the rising sun.
Where is Chhath Puja celebrated outside India?
Chhath Puja is celebrated by Indian communities globally, including in countries like Mauritius, Australia, and Nepal.
What is the significance of Chhath Puja?
Chhath Puja promotes environmental sustainability, gender participation, and social inclusion, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the regions it originates from.
