New Delhi, Oct 28 (NationPress) As Chhath Puja reached its auspicious conclusion with the rising sun on Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his sincere wishes to all participants and fasting devotees, along with every citizen who took part in this revered festival.

He emphasized that during this four-day observance, we experienced the divine essence of our rich Chhath Puja tradition.

After four days of dedication and fasting, Chhath Puja came to a close on Tuesday morning. This festival, celebrated annually after Diwali, is centered around expressing gratitude to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya for blessings of health, wealth, and prosperity.

On his social media platform X, Prime Minister Modi stated, “The auspicious conclusion of this grand festival of Chhath occurred today with the morning prayers offered to Lord Surya. Throughout these four days of devotion, we witnessed the divine essence of our magnificent Chhath Puja tradition. Heartfelt congratulations to all devotees and fasting individuals, as well as to our family members who participated in this sacred festival! May the boundless blessings of Chhathi Maiya forever light your paths.”

In accordance with the Hindu calendar, Chhath Puja falls on the sixth day (Shashthi Tithi) of the Kartik month’s Shukla Paksha, typically occurring six days after Diwali. The celebration spans four days, starting with Nahay Khay and culminating in Usha Arghya, where prayers are offered to the rising sun.

The festival begins with Nahay Khay (October 25), where devotees take a holy dip and prepare a simple meal. The second day, Kharna (October 26), involves a full-day fast from morning until evening, concluded with offerings of rasiya (sweet porridge) and roti. The third day signifies Sandhya Arghya, when the ‘nirjala vrat’ (fast without water) begins, lasting until the early hours of the fourth day (Usha Arghya).

Chhath Puja is believed to have its roots in ancient times. According to legend, Lord Rama and Goddess Sita performed the first Chhath Puja upon their return to Ayodhya to invoke blessings from the Sun God for prosperity.

One of the most significant Hindu festivals, Chhath Puja is predominantly celebrated in Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh. It is also observed in parts of Nepal and by Indian communities globally.

Since early Tuesday morning, devotees gathered along riverbanks to perform Usha Arghya. Images from Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi, and Maharashtra depict women standing in chilly waters, immersed in devotion as the sun rises.