The sacred festival of Chhath Puja is being celebrated with traditional fervor and grandeur at the Saraswati Devi Temple Chhath Ghat in Barkheda, Bhopal. Organized by the Bihar Cultural Council, the event marks a vibrant tribute to faith, folk heritage, and social unity. On the second day of the festival, known as Kharna or Lohanda, women devotees observed a rigorous fast from sunrise to sunset without water, dedicating the day to prayer and spiritual reflection. The fast was broken in the evening with offerings of jaggery-rice pudding (kheer), homemade bread (roti), and fruits—shared among family and community to symbolize harmony and devotion.

 

Chhath Ghat has been transformed into a radiant spiritual space, adorned with colourful lights and captivating idols of Chhathi Maiya. Special arrangements for women devotees included bathing facilities with water from an ancient well and private changing rooms. Dedicated committees ensured cleanliness, safety, medical aid, and smooth entry and exit for all attendees. Adding to the festive atmosphere, the event featured folk songs, poetic recitations, and devotional bhajans. In collaboration with the Bhojpuri Sahitya Academy and the Government of Madhya Pradesh, renowned singers from Patna—Kumar Uday Singh and Kumari Rani—performed with their musical group, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry of Bihar and Purvanchal. Local artists also presented stories and rituals of Chhath Puja to engage and educate the youth. During Paran, the conclusion of the fast, council volunteers will serve raw cow milk, hot milk, and tea-coffee to devotees. Festival coordinator Satendra Kumar emphasized that Chhath Puja is the soul of Bihar’s cultural heritage and a powerful expression of Indian folk tradition that unites communities. The Council extended warm wishes to all and invited citizens to join in the celebration of faith, culture, and collective goodwill.