Chhath Puja: Devotees Flock to Patna’s Ganga Ghats

Patna: The anticipated influx of devotees to the Chhath Ghats in Patna commenced on Saturday, with worshippers traveling from distant locations, accompanied by their families. The arrival is not limited to the city, as devotees from districts surrounding Patna are also making their way to the riverbanks.

To facilitate their stay, the district administration has erected a temporary mass passenger shed, where devotees are settling with their belongings, creating beds from straw on the ground. Amidst the spiritual fervor, Chhath fasting participants also prepared the Mahaprasad of Kharna at the ghats.

A significant number of Chhath Vratis, including those observing fasts in Sampatchak and Punpun, arrived, with devotees hailing from Gaya, Nalanda, Jehanabad, and even Jharkhand making a considerable presence. This included individuals who have consistently journeyed to Patna for Chhath over the past 4-5 years. Many of these devotees lack relatives in Patna, or if they do, their residences are distant from the Ghats.

This year, the devotees arriving from afar express a sense of safety and security at the ghats. Major ghats, such as College Ghat, Collectorate Ghat, and NIT Ghat, have installed CCTV cameras, ensuring continuous surveillance. A temporary control room has been established for convenience, with deployed police personnel providing real-time information. The ghats are equipped with essential facilities like toilets, water, and lights, enhancing the convenience for devotees as they partake in the sacred rituals.