Devotees Flood Prayagraj’s Ghats for Chhath Festival Celebrations

The banks of the Sangam in Prayagraj have transformed into a vibrant tapestry of devotion as thousands gather to celebrate the third day of the Chhath Festival. On October 23, 2023, women participated in a rigorous ‘nirjala upvaas’ (fast without water) while offering ‘Arghya’ to the setting sun, praying for the well-being and prosperity of their families.

Devotees began flocking to prominent ghats, including Sangam, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Balua Ghat, Kali Ghat, and Gau Ghat, in the afternoon, creating a bustling atmosphere filled with anticipation for the evening rituals. As dusk approached, women dressed in traditional sarees entered the sacred waters, standing waist-deep as they prayed to Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya. The air resonated with chants, the flickering of lamps, and devotional songs, establishing a deeply spiritual ambiance along the riverbanks.

In preparation for the large turnout, the local administration made extensive arrangements on October 22. These included the installation of electric connections, changing rooms, and mobile toilets at major ghats to enhance the convenience for devotees. Workers diligently connected power lines and placed sandbags to mitigate slippery conditions near the water. Additionally, police and volunteers were deployed to manage the crowds and ensure safety.

At the Sangam Nose, the Purvanchal Chhath Puja and Vikas Samiti hosted a special ceremony to invoke the blessings of the sun, adding to the festival’s significance. Markets across the city, particularly in Alopibagh, Balua Ghat, and Dhoomanganj, experienced heavy foot traffic as families stocked up on ritual items. Prices for essential items varied, with large bamboo baskets priced at Rs 400, smaller ones at Rs 350, and ‘soops’ (winnowing fans) for Rs 150.

The cost of fruits surged as well; guavas from Jhansi sold for Rs 100 per kilogram, sugarcane at Rs 50 each, grapefruits at Rs 80, apples at Rs 120, and pineapples at Rs 80 each. Devotees also purchased bananas at prices ranging from Rs 50 to Rs 60 per dozen.

The Chhath Festival will culminate on October 28, 2023, when devotees will offer ‘Arghya’ to the rising sun (Usha Arghya) at the Sangam and other ghats. Early in the morning, women observing the fast will gather to pray to the morning sun, marking the end of their 36-hour-long fast. Ritual songs and offerings of fruits, sugarcane, and ‘thekua’ will be presented to Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya. Following the rituals, participants will break their fasts and share prasad with family and neighbors.

The district administration has urged devotees to maintain cleanliness and safety at the ghats during the concluding ceremony, ensuring a respectful and harmonious environment for all participants.