New Delhi, November 13 (H.S.): The four-day Chhath Mahaparva, dedicated to faith and the worship of the Sun God, commenced on Friday with the observance of Nahay-Khay. Markets across Delhi are witnessing a significant rush as devotees turn out in large numbers to purchase essential items for the festival. The celebrations will conclude on November 16 with the offering of Arghya to the rising Sun.

With the commencement of the four-day festival dedicated to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya, markets in Delhi, including Azadpur Mandi and Ghazipur Mandi, as well as fruit markets in Varanasi and various local marketplaces, have witnessed a substantial influx of shoppers. Heavy crowds have also led to traffic congestion in several areas.

Even smaller neighbourhood markets have become increasingly busy ahead of the festival. Shops selling fruits, sugarcane, coconuts, bamboo baskets (soop and daura) and other ritual offerings are witnessing a steady flow of customers. Demand for earthen stoves, new utensils and other items traditionally used during Chhath Puja has also increased.

Nahay-Khay:The festival begins with ritual bathing and the observance of strict purity. Devotees, known as vratins, commence the festival by consuming a traditional, sattvic meal comprising pumpkin curry, rice and chana dal.

Kharna: On this day, devotees observe a fast throughout the day and consume prasad, traditionally consisting of jaggery-based kheer and roti, in the evening. Following this ritual, they begin the rigorous 36-hour fast without food or water.

Sandhya Arghya: The evening offering will be performed on Sunday. Devotees will gather at rivers, ponds and designated Chhath ghats to offer Arghya to the setting Sun.

Usha Arghya and Paran: The festival will conclude on Monday with Usha Arghya, when devotees offer prayers to the rising Sun. They will subsequently break their fast through the ritual of Paran, marking the completion of the four-day festival.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar