RAIPUR,CG,BHARAT: Thousands of devotees gathered at Mahadev Ghat on the banks of the Kharun River to offer Arghya to the setting sun on the third day of the Chhath festival, one of the most significant rituals in this four-day celebration. Organized by the Chhath Mahaparva Committee, Mahadevghat Raipur, over 30,000 people participated in the evening's events, celebrating with reverence and traditional ceremonies.

Committee Chairman Rajesh Kumar Singh noted the vibrant celebrations across Chhattisgarh, with Chhath Puja rituals taking place at more than 50 locations in Raipur alone, including Mahadev Ghat, Vyas Talab, and other local ponds. Cities like Bilaspur, Bhilai-Durg, Korba, and Bastar also held grand Chhath gatherings, reflecting the deep cultural significance of the festival throughout the state.

A cultural program was held on Thursday evening  at Mahadev Ghat, featuring renowned artists such as international folk singers Kalpana Patwari from Mumbai, Gayatri Yadav from Lucknow, Parineeta Rao Patnaik, and popular Chhattisgarhi folk singer Dukalu Yadav. Following the performances, a Maha Aarti was conducted, enhancing the spiritual ambiance of the evening.

Chhath Puja will conclude tomorrow morning, November 8, with the Usha Arghya, where devotees offer prayers to the rising sun. Known as Shashthi Puja or Surya Shashthi Vrat, the Chhath festival uniquely honors both the setting and rising sun, dedicated to Surya and his sister, Chhathi Maiya. The four-day festival involves strict rituals, including fasting, standing in water, and abstaining from water as acts of devotion.

While celebrated primarily in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Eastern Uttar Pradesh, Chhath Puja's traditions thrive worldwide among Indian communities, especially in Nepal, Fiji, Mauritius, Suriname, and Guyana. The festival’s observance highlights the cultural preservation and pride of Bihari and Eastern UP communities, reflecting their continued connection to heritage across global and local diasporas.