Guwahati, 25 October (HS): The four-day Chhath Puja, a festival symbolizing faith and purity, began across the country, including Assam, with the ritual of ‘Nahay-Khay’ on Friday.

On this occasion, Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma conveyed his heartfelt greetings to devotees and citizens.

In his message, the Chief Minister said, “‘Nahay-Khay’ marks the first day of Chhath Puja and symbolizes the purification of body and soul. May Lord Surya and Chhathi Maiya bless all devotees and their families with fulfillment of their wishes.”

The Chhath festival starts with ‘Nahay-Khay,’ followed by ‘Kharna,’ ‘Sandhya Arghya’ (evening offering) and concludes with ‘Bhor Arghya’ (morning offering) to the rising Sun.

In Guwahati and other parts of Assam, preparations are in full swing with ghats being cleaned and decorated. The local administration has made special arrangements for safety and sanitation to ensure devotees perform the rituals smoothly.---------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash