Preparations Complete for Chhath Puja in Prayagraj, Devotees Expected to Gather at Major Ghats

Prayagraj, November 15 (Daily Kiran) : The city of Prayagraj has completed extensive preparations for the Chhath Mahaparv, with local authorities ensuring that major ghats such as Sangam, Aral Ghat, Ram Ghat, and Balughat are ready to accommodate the influx of devotees. Cleanliness, leveling, and lighting arrangements have been made at these sites to facilitate a smooth worship experience.

As the festival reaches its third day on Sunday, devotees are expected to gather at the ghats to offer evening prayers to the setting sun. Early morning scenes reveal women arriving at the ghats with offerings of fruits, flowers, and other worship materials. The administration has also put in place barricades, changing rooms, and security measures, designating safe areas for bathing in the river. Clean-up crews are actively maintaining the cleanliness of the ghats.

One female devotee shared her anticipation, stating, “Today is Chhath Puja, and the ghats will be very crowded in the evening. We will offer prayers to the setting sun today and to the rising sun tomorrow morning.” She emphasized that this festival is dedicated to ensuring the long life and prosperity of children, especially sons.

A local priest recounted the ancient legend behind the Chhath festival, explaining that it dates back to a king named Priyavrat, whose wife Malini struggled with infertility. In their quest for a child, they performed a Putreshthi Yajna, which initially resulted in a stillborn son. Overcome with grief, the king sought solace at a cremation ground, where the goddess known as Shashthi Mata appeared and instructed him to worship her sincerely. Following her guidance, the king performed the Chhath ritual on the sixth day of the waxing moon in Kartik, leading to the birth of a healthy son. This event marked the beginning of the tradition of Chhath Puja, aimed at safeguarding children and wishing for their longevity.

The priest further explained that the Chhath Mahaparv spans four days, starting with Nahay-Khay, followed by Kharna, the evening Arghya, and concluding with the morning Arghya on the fourth day. Devotees observe a rigorous 36-hour fast without water. This evening, the first Arghya will be offered to the setting sun, and the fast will conclude the next morning with offerings to the rising sun.