Chhath Festival Brings Joy to Terai-Madhesh
West Nawalparasi, Kattik 9 Gate — The Terai-Madhesh
region is filled with excitement as the Chhath festival, a celebration of
faith, purity, and devotion, is being observed with great enthusiasm. Dedicated
to the worship of the Sun God and his consort Chhathi Maiya, this festival has become
a symbol of unity and cultural pride across the plains of Nepal.
The four-day celebration officially begins on Kattik
Shukla Chaturthi (Nahay–Khay). Markets are bustling with people buying
festival essentials such as bamboo baskets, clay pots, sugarcane, coconuts,
thekuwa, and bhusuwa (kasar). Local rivers, ponds, and lakes are being
beautifully decorated with colorful lights, flags, and traditional art as
community groups and youth clubs prepare the ghats (riverbanks) for
worship.
During the festival, devotees—especially women—observe
strict fasting and rituals for family well-being, prosperity, and health. After
the Kharna fast, participants undertake a 36-hour waterless fast,
symbolizing discipline and devotion. On the main day, devotees carry koshi
(baskets) filled with offerings like fruits and sweets to the water bodies,
where they offer arghya (prayers) to the setting and rising sun, marking
the completion of the Chhath rituals.
Chhath is also celebrated as a festival of social harmony,
bringing together people of all castes, faiths, and backgrounds. The local
administration has been urged to ensure peaceful and safe celebrations at all
major Chhath Ghats. With its message of purity, faith, and unity, the
Chhath festival continues to spread joy and harmony throughout the
Terai-Madhesh region and beyond.
Post a Comment
0Comments