Jamshedpur : Devotees in Jamshedpur immersed themselves in the spiritual ambiance of the four-day Chhath Puja, culminating in fervent prayers to the Sun God. The city’s riverbanks, particularly along the Subarnarekha and Kharkai rivers, witnessed a vibrant congregation of thousands of devotees, primarily housewives and their families.
From Saturday afternoon, the ‘ghats’ in Mango, Adityapur, Baghbera, and Sidghora became the focal points for the faithful seeking blessings for the prosperity and happiness of their loved ones. Adityapur and Mango, as expected, drew the largest number of devotees, offering ‘Araghya’ to the setting sun.
The riverbanks were adorned with temporary canopies, courtesy of social and cultural organizations, providing assistance and essential commodities to devotees and fast observers. The district administration ensured security with police personnel and emergency services like ambulances strategically stationed along the riverbanks.
In Baghbera, some devout worshippers took their dedication a step further, covering the entire route from their homes to the riverbanks, stretching their bodies on the ground as a symbolic gesture.
As Saturday transitioned into nightfall, worshippers gathered under canopies made from sugar cane stalks for further celebrations. Offerings were laid out as a tribute to the god of fire, marking the culmination of the day’s rituals. Before sunrise, devotees returned to the riverbank for a final prayer to the rising sun, the focal point of Chhath Puja.
Nisha Bajpai, a housewife, expressed, “The festival is a way to thank the Sun god for giving us energy. Chhath Puja is performed to promote the well-being, progress, and prosperity of the family, relatives, and friends.”
Lakhs of devotees, having taken a dip in the rivers, offered prayers, emphasizing values of truth, non-violence, forgiveness, and compassion. The festival is also associated with beliefs that worshiping the Sun helps cure diseases such as leprosy and ensures the longevity of family and friends.
Amidst the rituals, devotees engaged in singing folklores and hymns from Rig Veda, contributing to the spiritual atmosphere. A representative from Bhojpuri Sangh emphasized, “The festival, aiming at bringing peace and harmony to the family, should be celebrated across the country. It is because of the Sun that we are able to survive and live; hence, worshiping the Sun god is a must.”