Chaiti Chhath Kharna Observed with Devotion in Patna
Devotees in Patna observed the sacred Kharna ritual of Chaiti Chhath with deep devotion on Monday, marking the second day of this significant four-day festival. Following sunset, participants commenced the rigorous 36-hour nirjala fast, a period of complete abstinence from food and water, which underscores their spiritual dedication. Concurrently, the district administration has finalized extensive preparations at 49 major ghats and water bodies across the city to ensure the festival proceeds smoothly and safely.
The Significance of Kharna and Ritual Observances
Kharna involves a day-long fast without water, which is broken after sunset with a special prasad consisting of jaggery kheer, roti, and fruits. After partaking in this ritual meal, devotees embark on the challenging nirjala vrat, during which they will offer prayers to the setting Sun God and Chhathi Maiya. The festival is set to conclude on March 25 with the morning arghya, where devotees will offer prayers to the rising sun, symbolizing the cycle of life and divine blessings.
"Kharna is a significant part of our tradition. We are grateful to Chhathi Maiya for her blessings. We're observing this fast for the well-being of our family. It's a test of our devotion and willpower," shared Ritu Devi, a devotee from Patna’s Kankarbagh area, reflecting the personal and communal spirit of the occasion.
Health Benefits and Historical Roots
In the evening, vratis consumed the prasad of jaggery kheer and roti, after which family members also received the blessed offerings. The air in many households across Patna resonated with Chhath folk songs, creating an atmosphere of profound devotion and cultural richness. On Kharna, devotees prepare the prasad with complete purity, often using earthen stoves to maintain traditional practices.
Acharya Rakesh Jha highlighted the health benefits associated with the consumption of raw sugarcane juice and jaggery in the Kharna prasad. "The Surya Shashthi fast is observed for good health, good fortune, and progeny. According to Skanda Purana, King Priyavrat also observed this fast. He contracted leprosy and observed the Chhath fast to seek relief from this disease from Bhagwan Bhaskar (Lord Sun). In Skanda Purana, the fast is mentioned as Pratihar Shashthi. The description of Chhath is also found in Varshakrityam," he explained, connecting the ritual to ancient scriptures and its enduring relevance.
Administrative Preparations and Safety Measures
To manage the large crowds expected during the festival, the district administration has divided Patna into five circles and will have officials present at the ghats in three shifts around the clock. Patna Municipal Corporation (PMC) spokesperson Priya Saurabh stated, "Fogging is being done continuously at all the ghats; three-level barricading for safety has already been completed." These measures aim to prevent health hazards and ensure orderly conduct.
Municipal commissioner Yashpal Meena announced that a 1-km radius around every ghat has been declared a no-littering zone, with disciplinary actions for violators to maintain cleanliness. Additionally, PMC has ensured comprehensive facilities at all designated ghats, including:
- High-mast lighting for visibility and security
- Drinking water stations for devotees
- Temporary changing rooms for convenience
- Enhanced cleanliness drives to uphold hygiene standards
These efforts reflect a collaborative approach between the community and authorities to honor the traditions of Chaiti Chhath while prioritizing public safety and environmental care.
