Chhath Festival Preparations Underway in Uttar Pradesh's Chandauli

The Chhath Mahaparv, one of India's most significant festivals, is set to commence Friday in Uttar Pradesh's Chandauli district with the Nahay-Khay ritual, marking the beginning of festivities that will continue for four days. The festival, celebrated primarily in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Jharkhand, draws thousands of devotees who gather at riverbanks to offer prayers to the sun god.

In Chandauli, administrative and civic authorities have accelerated preparations to ensure the ghats are ready for the expected crowds. Following the completion of cleaning drives at multiple river access points, workers have begun decorating the ghat steps with traditional red and white colors, a customary practice that adds ceremonial significance to the worship sites.

The Nahay-Khay ritual, the first phase of Chhath celebrations, involves ritual bathing and the preparation of specific food offerings. Over the coming days, devotees will perform Kharna and Sandhya Arghya rituals, culminating in the Usha Arghya on the final day. Local authorities have also been making arrangements to manage crowd flow and ensure safety measures are in place across the ghats.