

Ranchi: As the four-day Chhath Mahaparv began across Jharkhand with the traditional ritual of Nahay-Khay, Chief Minister Hemant Soren extended his greetings to devotees and people across the state, wishing them happiness, peace and prosperity.
In his message, the Chief Minister conveyed his best wishes to Chhath devotees and worshippers, invoking the blessings of Lord Surya and Chhathi Maiya for the well-being of everyone.
He expressed hope that the festival of faith and devotion would bring happiness and prosperity into people's lives. He also extended his traditional greeting of 'Johar' to the people of Jharkhand.
Chhath, one of the most significant festivals in eastern India, is observed over four days with rituals dedicated to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya. The celebrations begin with Nahay-Khay, during which devotees take a ritual bath, offer prayers and consume a traditional vegetarian meal.
The second day is marked by Kharna, followed by Sandhya Arghya, when devotees offer prayers to the setting Sun, and Usha Arghya, when offerings are made to the rising Sun on the final morning.
Meanwhile, preparations for the festival have gathered pace across Jharkhand. Local administrations are making arrangements for cleaning and maintaining riverbanks and other Chhath ghats, along with security measures and essential facilities to ensure the smooth conduct of the celebrations.
The Chief Minister's greetings added to the festive spirit as devotees began observing the traditional rituals with faith and devotion across the state.
