Guwahati, 15 November (H.S.): The Sandhya Arghya ritual of Chhath Puja was celebrated across Assam and other parts of the country on Sunday with deep devotion, enthusiasm and traditional fervour.

Devotees gathered at riverbanks, ponds and other water bodies to offer arghya to the setting sun. Women observing the rigorous fast, along with their family members, performed traditional rituals and offered prayers for the happiness, prosperity and well-being of their families.

The four-day Chhath Puja festival began with Nahay Khay, during which devotees took a holy bath and consumed a traditional meal as part of the purification ritual. This was followed by Kharna on the second day, when devotees observed a day-long fast and broke it in the evening after offering prayers to the Sun God and preparing traditional prasad.

On Sunday, devotees observed a strict fast and performed Sandhya Arghya, offering prayers to the setting sun while standing in water. The festival will conclude on Monday morning with Usha Arghya, when devotees will offer prayers to the rising sun before breaking their fast.

The celebrations were marked by religious fervour, traditional songs and a festive atmosphere, highlighting the cultural and spiritual significance of Chhath Puja.------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash