How is happiness, peace, and prosperity prayed for Bihar on Chhath?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Nitish Kumar sends warm wishes for peace and prosperity during Chhath Puja.
- The festival emphasizes self-discipline and devotion.
- Devotees offer prayers to Lord Bhaskar for blessings.
- Rituals include fasting and taking holy dips.
- Chhath Puja has ancient roots in Indian culture.
New Delhi, Oct 25 (NationPress) Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Saturday conveyed his best wishes to the citizens of Bihar and the nation on the inaugural day of Chhath Puja, offering prayers to Lord Bhaskar (Sun) for the development, joy, tranquility, and prosperity of the state.
CM Nitish utilized the social media platform 'X' to express, "Warm greetings and heartfelt wishes to the people of Bihar and the nation on the occasion of Chhath, a magnificent four-day celebration of folk devotion. This festival exemplifies self-discipline, where devotees present offerings to the setting and rising Sun God, all while maintaining a pure conscience and a serene mind. During this significant festival of Chhath, we beseech Lord Bhaskar for the development, joy, tranquility, and prosperity of our state."
Union Minister of Food Processing Industries and head of the Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) Chirag Paswan also shared his greetings, stating, "Warmest wishes to all on the occasion of ‘Nahay-Khaay’ of Chhath Puja, a celebration of heritage, belief, and community harmony. I ask Chhathi Maiya for everyone's joy and prosperity."
Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary also conveyed his message on 'X', stating, "Warmest greetings to all Chhathvratis on the first day of Chhath Puja, the magnificent festival of folk devotion, 'Nahay-Khaay'. May everyone achieve joy, prosperity, and well-being through the blessings of Chhathi Maiya. Jai Chhathi Maiya.”
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha extended his wishes on social media, saying, "Warmest wishes to you and your family on the inaugural day of Chhath Puja, the remarkable festival of folk faith, renowned for honoring nature. May Chhathi Maiya fulfill all your desires."
Former Chief Minister of Delhi Arvind Kejriwal also shared his greetings via 'X'. AAP chief Kejriwal posted, "The magnificent festival of Chhath, a celebration of folk belief, commences today with Nahay-Khaay. Salutations to the devotion, commitment, and faith of all devotees. May Lord Bhaskar and Chhathi Maiya bestow blessings of joy, prosperity, and health upon everyone."
On this initial day, devotees, referred to as 'Vratis' (those who are fasting), take a sacred dip in rivers or ponds and enjoy a simple, 'sattvic' (characterized by purity, harmony, and balance) meal comprising of arwa chawal (plain rice) and lauki ki sabzi (bottle gourd curry) after offering prayers. Other traditional dishes such as chana dal, amla chutney, and papad are prepared and later distributed as 'prasad' (ritual food offering).
With origins tracing back to the Satyuga and Dwapara Yuga, Chhath Puja is acknowledged as one of the most ancient forms of Sun worship. Devotees adhere to strict fasting, refraining from food and water for extended durations to demonstrate their devotion and seek blessings of prosperity, health, and happiness. Worshipping Surya during Chhath is believed to eliminate negativity and usher in peace and positivity.