Shailja Jha
Patna: In a heartwarming display of cultural devotion, a significant number of people are making their way back to their hometowns from different states to celebrate the auspicious festival of Chhath. This annual festival sees families reuniting to observe the age-old traditions of offering prayers to the Sun God, symbolizing gratitude, purity, and the continuity of life.
As the Sun sets on the horizon, the spirit of Chhath draws families together, transcending geographical distances. Train stations and bus terminals are witnessing a surge in travellers, carrying with them not just luggage but also the anticipation of reuniting with loved ones for the sacred rituals of Chhath Puja.
For many, the journey home is a time-honoured tradition, a pilgrimage that holds immense cultural significance. The sound of laughter, chatter, and the occasional burst of folk songs permeates the air as families embark on the pilgrimage, creating a festive atmosphere in transportation hubs across states.
Chhath, a festival widely celebrated in the states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, holds deep emotional ties for those living away from their roots. The occasion is marked by a four-day celebration that involves rigorous rituals such as holy bathing, fasting, and offering arghya (obeisance) to the rising and setting sun. The return to one’s hometown becomes a way to not only participate in these rituals but also to strengthen familial bonds and reconnect with cultural heritage.
Tejaswi Kumari (21) studies in Patna as a journalism student and has returned to her hometown Mokama to celebrate Chhath. “Chhath is not just a festival; it’s a reunion of hearts. The joy of being with family during these celebrations is unparalleled. The journey back home is a tradition we uphold with great enthusiasm,” Tejaswi said.
The return of people to their hometowns for Chhath is not just a personal celebration but also a community affair. Neighbourhoods are adorned with vibrant decorations, and local communities organize collective events to welcome the returnees. The collective enthusiasm creates an atmosphere of joy and togetherness, fostering a sense of unity and community spirit.
A Labor of Love: Families Come Together
Wheat cleaning on Nahay Khay is not a solitary endeavour; it is a communal activity that brings families together. In households across regions where Chhath is celebrated with fervour, the entire family, spanning generations, participates in this labour of love. The process involves hand-picking each grain, emphasizing the importance of attention to detail and the shared commitment to the upcoming puja.
Amid technological advancements and fast-paced lifestyles, the wheat cleaning ritual stands as a symbol of the enduring connection between tradition and modernity. While some may view it as a traditional practice, for many, it is a meaningful way to stay connected with their cultural roots, passing down age-old customs to the younger generation.
Prachi Sharan (20), a student in Patna is all set for Chhath puja. “This tradition of cleaning wheat is not just a ritual; it is a spiritual practice that signifies purity and devotion. It’s about presenting the best of what we have to offer to the Sun God,” Prachi said.
The act of cleaning wheat holds profound symbolism in Chhath Puja, a festival dedicated to the worship of the Sun God. Devotees believe that the purity of the offerings, particularly the wheat, is essential to receiving the blessings of the deity. The process involves sorting through the grains, meticulously removing any impurities or unwanted elements.
Khushi Singh (20), a student of Patna Women’s College said: “As we clean the wheat together, it’s not just a physical task; it’s a bonding experience. It reminds us of the importance of purity in our lives and the unity of our family.”
