Delhi, 25 October (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his heartfelt greetings on Saturday to devotees across the globe as the four-day Chhath Mahaparv commenced with the sacred ritual of 'Nahay-Khay'.

In a series of posts on the social media platform X, the Prime Minister paid tribute to the unwavering devotion of the 'vratis' (devotees who fast) and underscored the festival's profound cultural significance. He described the celebration as a grand festival of our culture and a symbol of simplicity and restraint, noting its unparalleled purity and discipline.

PM Modi highlighted that the scenes at the 'ghats' during the festival offer a remarkable inspiration of familial and social harmony.The Prime Minister also noted the festival's expanding global reach, stating that Chhath is now celebrated by the Indian diaspora worldwide with deep devotion. He characterized the festival as a unique confluence of faith, worship, and love for nature, where devotees offer 'arghya' (water offerings) to both the setting and the rising sun.Recalling a recent visit to Begusarai in Bihar, he acknowledged the contributions of folk artists like Sharda Sinha in enriching the festival's traditions through their devotional music.

To mark the occasion, the Prime Minister shared a devotional song dedicated to Chhathi Maiya, inviting everyone to immerse themselves in its spiritual resonance. My wish is that Chhathi Maiya blesses everyone abundantly, he concluded.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar