A Celebration of Light and Life, Chhath Puja

 

A Celebration of Light and Life: Witnessing the Final Day of Chhath Puja (#ChhathPuja)

Today marks the culmination of Chhath Puja, a vibrant Hindu festival dedicated to the Sun God, Surya, and Chhathi Maiya, the goddess associated with fertility and well-being.

Early Beginnings: As dawn paints the sky, devotees rise before the break of day, as early as 2 or 3 am. Carrying baskets filled with puja materials on their heads, they embark on a dedicated journey, often walking kilometers to reach the designated "Chhath Ghats" – sacred riverbanks or ponds.

Rituals by the Rising Sun: Upon reaching the ghats, a sense of community and devotion fills the air. Some devotees clean the ghats, preparing the space for worship. Others, with unwavering faith, wade waist-deep into the water, offering prayers and oblations to the rising Sun. Their faces radiate a deep reverence for the life-giving power of the sun.

Breaking the Fast and Sharing Blessings: This final act of devotion marks the end of a rigorous 36-hour fast. The joyous occasion sees devotees break their fast with traditional offerings like Thekuas (fried flatbreads), bananas, and other fruits. A warm diya (earthen lamp) is lit to conclude the puja, symbolizing respect and appreciation for Surya.

Beyond Rituals: Chhath Puja is more than just rituals. It fosters a deeper connection with nature, encouraging compassion towards all living beings. The worship of the rising and setting sun signifies respect for the cyclical nature of life itself.

Celebrating Chhathi Maiya: Chhathi Maiya, a revered goddess, is also worshipped during the festival. Devotees seek her blessings for fertility, child protection, and overall family well-being.

A Legacy of Sun Worship: Chhath Puja finds its roots in ancient traditions where the Sun God was revered as a source of divine power, influencing harvests and life itself. The mythology surrounding the festival references Surya's seven-horse chariot, symbolizing the changing colors of the sun throughout the day.

Capturing the Essence: Photography plays a special role in capturing the essence of Chhath Puja. As devotees offer their prayers to the rising sun, photographers strive to create a balance. Their aim is to capture the beauty of the moment without disturbing the sacred ambiance with flashes.

A Journey of Faith and Community: Chhath Puja is a testament to the deep-rooted connection between humanity and nature. It's a celebration of family, tradition, and the life-sustaining power of the Sun.

Text and Photo by Ashok Karan, Ashokkaran.blogspot.com

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