The annual Chhath pooja festival has commenced with deep religious fervour and devotion, drawing thousands of devotees from the local communities of Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Nepal. This four-day celebration, which began today, will culminate on Friday, 8th November, with the final offerings to the Sun God, Surya, and Usha Devi or Chhath Maiya.

Preparations across the city are in full swing to accommodate the religious rites, which involve devotees, or "parvaitins," standing in knee-deep water at rivers, ponds, and other water bodies. As a result, all local water bodies, including holding ponds, are receiving enhancements to ensure a safe and accommodating space for the rituals.

Chhath Puja, or Chhath Mahaparv, is observed on Kartik Shukla Shashti, the sixth day of the Hindu month of Kartik, and is regarded as one of the most revered forms of sun worship globally. The rituals include holy bathing, complete fasting, abstention from drinking water, and standing in water while offering prayers to both the setting and rising sun.

In a notable celebration at NRI Complex, Seawoods, residents have come together to honour the Sun God in a display of cultural unity. The Ladies Group from the complex is organizing a grand celebration near the complex fountain, beautifully decorated for the occasion. Although Chhath Puja is primarily observed in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, residents from various regions are harmoniously joining the festivities.

The Navi Mumbai Bihar Association, as in previous years, has organized a large-scale event at the west bank of Palm Beach Talao (Palm Beach water body) in Nerul. In preparation, the organizers have employed laborers to clean and prepare the site for the devotees. This year marks the 28th year of Chhath Puja celebrations at Palm Beach Talao, with an anticipated attendance of over one lakh devotees from Navi Mumbai, Thane, and Raigad.

The celebration is open to all, embracing the theme of inclusivity with “Caste No Bar, Age No Bar, and Religion No Bar.” With support from various organizations, including Karm Kaushal, Hindi Samachar Patra, The Intent newspaper, Fuji Pictures & Cinema Ltd., and Apna Entertainment Ltd., the event will feature a complementary entertainment program titled “Surya-Gaan and Chhathi Maiya Geet.”

R.K. Sharma, President of Navi Mumbai Bihar Association, expressed gratitude to the civic authorities and police for their cooperation, noting that all necessary permissions have been secured to ensure a smooth and welcoming environment for devotees. The event will be overseen by Vivek Kumar, General Secretary of the association, who welcomes everyone to participate in the Mahaparv.