Chhath Mahaparv Begins Across Country With Nahay-Khay Ritual

New Delhi, Nov 13: The four-day Chhath Mahaparv commenced across the country on Friday with the traditional ‘Nahay-Khay’ ritual, marking the beginning of one of the most significant festivals dedicated to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya.

Devotees, particularly in Bihar, thronged riverbanks, ponds and Sun temples to offer prayers and seek blessings for the health, happiness and prosperity of their families.

From Patna to Aurangabad, festive fervour gripped several locations, with devotees gathering at sacred water bodies to observe the rituals. The historic Deo Sun Temple in Aurangabad witnessed a significant turnout of pilgrims.

Rajesh Pathak, chief priest of the Deo Sun Temple, highlighted its religious significance, stating that the Sun God is worshipped there in three forms representing Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh.

According to the traditional schedule, ‘Nahay-Khay’ is being observed on November 13, followed by ‘Kharna’ on November 14, when devotees prepare kheer as prasad. The first ‘Sandhya Arghya’ will be offered to the setting Sun on November 15, while the festival will conclude with ‘Usha Arghya’ to the rising Sun on November 16.

Extensive arrangements have been made at major Chhath ghats and religious sites to manage the crowds and ensure the safety of devotees.

The festival is marked by strict fasting, rituals and offerings to the Sun God, symbolising purity, gratitude and devotion.