chhath

Bengal's new BJP government has reduced the Bakrid holiday from two days to one, observing it on May 28. This move, which sees offices functioning normally on May 26 and 27, signals an intent to curb the previous administration's extensive holiday calendar. The decision contrasts with the TMC government's practice of extending holidays for long weekends.

Tejashwi Yadav, the leader of the opposition in Bihar, has launched a fierce attack on the state government over what he describes as a troubling escalation in crimes against women. He drew attention to a shocking increase in incidents of sexual violence and homicides, raising doubts about the government's dedication to ensuring safety and well-being for women.

Patna Municipal Corporation's standing committee approved 29 agendas, including charging rent from Kadamkuan vendors and deploying 'manhole ambulances' for swift repairs. Over Rs 5 crore was sanctioned for past festival projects, with Rs 50 lakh for ghat renovations. Water supply and infrastructure projects, including a new slaughterhouse, were also greenlit.

Ranchi's seven-year-old Ishank Singh has achieved a world record, becoming the youngest to swim the Palk Strait in 9 hours and 50 minutes. His family noted his early water affinity. Ishank now aims for greater challenges, including the English Channel and Olympic representation, demonstrating remarkable dedication and talent.

In a landmark ruling, the Sasaram court has delivered justice in a notorious 2024 robbery-murder case, convicting five individuals. Among them, three drew life sentences for the brutal murder of Bajrangi Singh, who fell victim to gunfire during a robbery near Dhaudand village.

In the vibrant tapestry of Mithila, the festive spirit of Madhu Shrawani once echoed the joys of community and nature. However, as modernization sweeps through the region and migration pulls families apart, these treasured rituals are quietly disappearing. Today, young individuals find themselves increasingly distanced from these ancestral customs.

In an impressive initiative propelled by the Namami Gange project, Bihar Urban Infrastructure Development Corporation has breathed new life into Azimabad zone's ghats in Patna. Bhadra Ghat now features a sleek paved expanse complemented by a scenic promenade, while both Mahavir and Nauzar Ghats proudly unveil their newly constructed concrete platforms.

The Chaiti chhath celebrations in Jamshedpur faced a tough ordeal as devotees confronted unsafe conditions at the river ghats. Walking barefoot over a landscape marked by broken glass and rubbish led to injuries among participants.

In Patna, the vibrant energy of Chaiti chhath filled the air as devotees poured their hearts into the evening 'arghya' ritual, honoring the retreating sun. Crowded ghats and tranquil makeshift ponds transformed into sacred spaces, with worshippers crafting traditional offerings like thekua and ladua.

Chaiti chhath Puja concluded with devotees offering 'arghya' to the rising sun, breaking their 36-hour fast. Celebrated with auspicious planetary alignments, the ritual involved exchanging 'mangal tika' and distributing 'prasad' like thekua. This ancient practice, linked to longevity and prosperity, saw families gather at ghats and ponds, seeking blessings for well-being.

Chaiti chhath commenced with 'nahay-khay' rituals, marking a four-day celebration of gratitude towards nature and the sun. Devotees took holy dips in the Ganga, preparing 'maha-prasad' with strict purity. The festival, observed with family togetherness and traditional songs, concludes on March 25 with morning 'arghya', promising prosperity and well-being.

A devastating incident marred the chhath Puja celebrations in Patna, as two young lives were tragically lost in the Ganga at Damrahi Ghat. As devotees gathered around 7 am, the allure of the river proved perilous when a group ignored safety barriers, swept away by the strong currents.

A Muslim real estate developer, Mumtaz Ahmad Khan, is earning widespread praise for voluntarily constructing a kuccha road to a temple in Daltonganj. His selfless act aims to facilitate thousands of devotees, particularly women, attending the Chaiti chhath puja and its associated fair. Khan is personally funding the project, demonstrating a powerful message of communal harmony and societal contribution.

Devotees in Patna embraced the 'kharna' ritual of Chaiti chhath, commencing a 36-hour nirjala fast after sunset. Preparations are complete at 49 ghats for the four-day festival, which honors the setting and rising sun. This sacred observance, steeped in tradition, focuses on family well-being and devotion, with prayers offered to chhathi Maiya.

Patna Zoo is gearing up for Chaiti chhath, offering devotees an alternative to Ganga ghats with its cleaned and prepared lake. Special arrangements include temporary ghats, water treatment, and enhanced safety measures for both visitors and animals. Free entry is available on March 24th after 2 PM and March 25th from 3 AM.