Chhath Puja Celebrations Begin with a Call for Respectful Purchases
The four-day Chhath Puja festivities have started, and Union Minister Giriraj Singh has urged devotees to buy puja materials from those who respect the festival. He emphasized the importance of discipline during this festival and expressed concerns about purchasing from people of other religions, fearing possible disrespect or adulteration of materials.
Chhath Puja: A Festival of Discipline
Chhath Puja is celebrated in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, with devotees also gathering in Delhi. The festival involves strict rituals and fasting to honor the Sun God. It began with Nahay Khay, a day of cleansing, followed by Kharna, Chhath Puja, and concluding with Usha Arghya.
Preparations and Celebrations
Delhi Chief Minister Atishi reviewed preparations at ITO ghat, with over 1,000 Chhath ghats being prepared. A public holiday is declared in Delhi on November 7. Indian Railways has arranged special trains for safe travel during the festival.
Chhath Puja is a significant festival, especially for women, and is celebrated with great enthusiasm, providing a break from daily chores and a chance to refresh.
Doubts Revealed
Union Minister -: A Union Minister is a person who is part of the central government in India and is responsible for specific areas like education, health, or agriculture. Giriraj Singh is one such minister.
Chhath Puja -: Chhath Puja is a Hindu festival dedicated to the Sun God, celebrated mainly in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. It involves fasting and offering prayers to the Sun for health and prosperity.
Sun God -: In Hinduism, the Sun God, also known as Surya, is considered a powerful deity who provides light and energy to the world. People worship the Sun God for good health and success.
ITO ghat -: ITO ghat is a place near the Yamuna River in Delhi where people gather to perform rituals during Chhath Puja. Ghats are steps leading down to a river, often used for religious ceremonies.
Delhi Chief Minister -: The Chief Minister is the head of the government in a state in India. Atishi is the current Chief Minister of Delhi, responsible for overseeing the administration and development of the city.
Indian Railways -: Indian Railways is the national railway system of India, which provides train services across the country. For festivals like Chhath Puja, they arrange special trains to help people travel to their hometowns.