Shailja Jha
Patna: In a breathtaking display of faith and devotion, a multitude of worshippers gathered in unison to observe the sacred Sandhya (evening) Arghya on the third day of the Chhath Puja. The serene banks of rivers and water bodies served as the sacred canvas for this ancient ritual, uniting families and communities in the spiritual ambiance of the occasion.
The Sandhya Arghya, a pivotal facet of Chhath Puja, unfolds during the evening, precisely at sunset. Devotees, adorned in traditional attire, congregated along riverbanks to partake in rituals involving offerings to the Sun God, an expression of gratitude for the sustenance of life on Earth. The rhythmic hymns and the flickering glow of earthen lamps combined to create an otherworldly atmosphere.
Patliputra resident Sandhya Upadhyay (52) shared, “Sandhya Arghya is a sacred time for us. Standing by the riverside, offering prayers to the setting Sun, it’s a moment of deep connection with nature and spirituality.”
For Rajeev Nagar resident Priyanka Sah (48), the celebration holds familial significance. “Growing up, it was a family affair. Now, even in the bustling city, I try to recreate the serene atmosphere by the river. It’s about maintaining traditions amid a changing lifestyle.”
The meticulous preparations for the ritual commenced days in advance, involving the thorough cleaning of homes, fasting, and the observance of purity. Devotees adhered rigorously to traditional practices, offering prasad (offerings) to the setting Sun while seeking blessings for their families’ well-being.
Local authorities played a pivotal role in orchestrating the festival’s smooth execution, organizing security measures, and providing essential amenities for the worshippers. In certain areas, makeshift ghats were erected to accommodate the influx of devotees, fostering a sense of community and shared devotion.
Vijaynagar resident Sweta Kumari (45) noted the convenience of celebrating Chhath Puja on her apartment’s terrace. “When we were kids, we used to go near rivers or ponds with our family, which were usually far from our homes. It was a struggle to carry all the required materials to the ghat but also a fun trip for all of us. Now, it’s quite convenient for us to do pooja on our terrace as we get already cemented tub-like small wells to do our pooja,” said Sweta.
The evening Arghya will be followed by paying obeisance to the rising Sun tomorrow early morning, which will mark the conclusion of the four- day festival.
