"Let us re-affirm our faith in Bhagwan Surya": President Murmu extends greetings on Chhath Puja

In her message, President Murmu said, "On the auspicious occasion of Chhath Puja, the holy festival of faith, fasting and devotion, I extend my hearty congratulations and warm wishes to all my fellow citizens."

The President further mentioned that Chhath Puja, one of the oldest festivals of the country, is an occasion to worship the Sun.

"This festival also worships the rivers and ponds, the unique gifts of nature. Through rigorous fasting, this festival purifies our minds and souls. This festival inspires one to protect and preserve the environment. On the occasion of Chhath Puja, let us re-affirm our faith in Bhagwan Surya, our rivers and the bounty of nature. May this festival bring happiness in our lives and may our reverence for nature continue to grow," President Murmu said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday extended his greetings to people on Nahay-Khay in Chhath festival.

"My best wishes to all the countrymen on the holy occasion of Nahay-Khay today in the festival of Chhath. My special greetings to all the fasting people. I wish that with the blessings of Chhathi Maiya, your rituals are completed successfully," PM Modi said in a post on X.

Chhath Puja is widely celebrated across the country, particularly in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh.Devotees in these states, as well as in Delhi, began rituals early Tuesday morning at the Yamuna and Ganga ghats.

The festival starts with Nahay-Khay on the Chaturthi Tithi of Kartik Shukla Paksha, focusing on purification and preparation. This is followed by Kharna on Panchami Tithi, Chhath Puja on Sashti, and concludes with Usha Arghya on Saptami Tithi.

The festivities will conclude on November 8.

Chhath Puja involves strict rituals and fasting to express gratitude to the Sun God for sustaining life on Earth. (ANI)