Lucknow: With Chhath Puja around the corner, Laxman Mela Ground on the banks of the Gomti river is being readied to welcome thousands of devotees. The main rituals of the festival will be held on Nov 15 and 16.The four-day festival will begin with Nahaye Khaye on Nov 13, followed by Kharna on Nov 14. Devotees will offer the evening arghya to the setting Sun on Nov 15, while the festival will conclude with the morning arghya to the rising Sun on Nov 16.The ghat has undergone a major makeover, with cleaning, painting and beautification work nearing completion. Adding an artistic touch, the steps have been decorated with Madhubani, Pichwai, Gondhna and Kalamkari motifs. Colourful floral rangolis are also being prepared on the ghat platform, giving the venue a festive look. The ghat is being illuminated with LED lights and large halogen lamps. A lost-and-found counter has also been set up for visitors. Green-net barricading has been installed along stretches where the water level is high.Chief minister Yogi Adityanath is expected to inaugurate the celebrations by offering the first arghya to the setting Sun at 4pm on Nov 15. Ministers, public representatives and senior BJP leaders are also expected to attend the event.All India Bhojpuri Samaj president Prabhunath Rai said Chhath Puja would be celebrated at around 110 locations across Lucknow. He stressed the need for extensive arrangements, including women’s security, traffic management, deployment of water police and civil police personnel, steamers, fogging, river cleaning and adequate lighting.The cultural programme will begin at 2pm and feature more than 100 artists. Padma Shri awardee Malini Awasthi will be the chief performer.
