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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