Lucknow: The fragrance of freshly cooked rice, the sight of sparkling-clean homes and the sound of devotional songs marked the beginning of the four-day Chhath festivities in the city on Friday, with devotees immersing themselves in rituals rooted in faith and devotion.For 30-year-old Hemlata Singh, the day began well before sunrise. Like hundreds of other devotees, she woke up early to observe Nahay Khaye, the first ritual of the festival. From washing her hair and cleaning every corner of her home to preparing a simple satvik meal of black chickpeas, rice and bottle gourd, she followed every tradition with utmost sincerity.The meal is first offered to the deity before devotees partake of it. Chhath is dedicated to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya, with devotees expressing gratitude for nature’s blessings and praying for the prosperity, happiness and long life of their family members.“This is the first time I will be observing the Chhath fast, and I am extremely excited to be part of this tradition. After completing all the rituals, I will sleep on the floor instead of a bed for the next four days,” said Singh, reflecting the spiritual fervour surrounding the festival.The celebrations will gather momentum on Saturday with Kharna, when devotees, particularly women, observe a rigorous fast without consuming even water. On Sunday, the main day of Chhath, they will offer Sandhya Arghya to the setting sun and continue their fast through the night. The festivities will conclude on Monday morning with Usha Arghya, offered to the rising sun.For Akanksha Paswan of Aliganj, the celebrations began with the warmth of community participation. With neighbours lending a helping hand in completing the rituals, she later visited Laxman Mela Ground to prepare the vedi, or ritual altar. She also applied sindoor to eight women, keeping the spirit of tradition and togetherness alive.
