RAUTAHAT, Nov 14: Devotees observed the Chhath festival by making offerings to the setting sun on Tuesday. The festival of goodwill and faith will come to an end after they make the final offering on Wednesday morning. 

Chhath is celebrated mostly in the tarai districts including Rautahat, Siraha, Saptari, Sunsari and Mahottari. Of late, its popularity is fast spreading in the hill districts, including the Kathmandu Valley, where it is mostly observed by people of Madhesi origin. The Hindu festival is dedicated to the Sun God and is observed for four days.

Devotees on Tuesday evening gathered around local ponds and rivers to make the offering to the setting sun. Traditionally, various sweets, fruits and other foods are offered along with worshipping materials. Special attention is given to purity and cleanliness during the pooja which is performed with strict sets of rules.

“The Sun God gives life to the whole earth. And in this festival, we worship the life giver. The tradition dates back to ages,” said Jaya Prakash Mishra, a Hindu priest. “Devotees will give the second and final offering to the Sun God and conclude the festival on Wednesday,” he added. 

Staunch devotees sit for fasting and abstain from even drinking water to maintain purity and cleanliness. It is believed that appeasing the Sun God brings happiness, prosperity, well-being and long life of family members.

 
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