The Impressive TimesPatna, Oct 26, 2024: With the auspicious occasion of Chhath Puja on the horizon, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has initiated a comprehensive review of the preparations underway at the Ganga Ghats in Patna. This revered festival, dedicated to the worship of the Sun God, draws large crowds of devotees who gather to perform elaborate rituals along the banks of the Ganges. Recognized as a significant cultural event, Chhath Puja will take place this year six days after Diwali, further enhancing its importance in the festive calendar. On Saturday, CM Kumar took a proactive approach by inspecting various Ganga Ghats to assess the current state of preparations. He boarded a steamer at Nasriganj Ghat, where he was accompanied by Cabinet Ministers and senior officials from the local administration. This direct engagement allowed the Chief Minister to witness firsthand the conditions across multiple Ghats, ensuring that all necessary facilities would be ready for the influx of worshippers.
During the inspection, CM Kumar emphasized the importance of meticulous planning and coordination among the various government departments involved in the preparations. He issued clear directives to the Patna district administration, highlighting key areas that require focused attention. Sanitation was at the forefront of his concerns, with the Chief Minister insisting that all Ghats be thoroughly cleaned and maintained to provide a welcoming and hygienic environment for devotees. The rituals associated with Chhath Puja involve close interaction with water, making cleanliness a top priority. In addition to sanitation, CM Kumar stressed the need for adequate lighting at the Ghats to ensure the safety of worshippers, especially during the early morning and late evening hours when many rituals are performed. With the Ganga Ghats typically becoming crowded during this time, the Chief Minister recognized the necessity of effective crowd management strategies. He urged the administration to establish a comprehensive plan that includes the deployment of sufficient personnel to monitor and direct the flow of visitors, thereby preventing any potential accidents or overcrowding.
Security measures were also a significant aspect of the Chief Minister’s directives. With large gatherings expected, ensuring the safety of all participants is paramount. CM Kumar instructed local law enforcement agencies to bolster their presence at the Ghats, providing an additional layer of security and reassurance for the devotees. This includes deploying personnel at strategic locations to oversee the crowd and maintain order.
As the preparations ramp up, the Patna district administration is working diligently to ensure that every aspect of the festival is well-organized. District Magistrate Dr. Chandrashekhar Singh is personally overseeing the arrangements, reflecting the administration’s commitment to a successful Chhath Puja. The preparation involves not only logistical support but also community engagement to ensure that all stakeholders are involved in the celebration.
This year, 109 Ghats in the urban area of Patna have been designated for Chhath Vratis (devotees observing the fast). However, the rising water levels in the Ganga River have introduced additional challenges for the administration. To address safety concerns, the Ghats have been strategically divided into 19 sectors, each managed by a dedicated magistrate responsible for overseeing operations within their respective areas. This sector-wise approach allows for more focused management and rapid response to any issues that may arise.
Moreover, to safeguard public health, the administration is expected to release a list of potentially hazardous Ghats where performing Chhath rituals will be prohibited. This proactive measure aims to prevent accidents and ensure that all devotees can participate safely in the time-honored traditions of the festival.
Chhath Puja is steeped in cultural significance, marking a time for families to come together and engage in deep spiritual practices. The festival commences with Nahai-Khaai on November 5, a ritual that involves cleansing and purification. This is followed by Kharna on November 6, during which devotees observe a full day of fasting, culminating in an evening meal that includes a traditional dish known as Khir-Roti. The rituals continue with Sandhya Arghya on November 7, when offerings are made to the setting Sun. The festival concludes with Ugha Arghya on November 8, featuring an early morning offering to the rising Sun, signifying the conclusion of the four-day observance.
With the Chhath festival approaching rapidly, the administration, under the guidance of CM Nitish Kumar, is fully committed to creating a safe, organized, and spiritually enriching experience for all devotees. The Chief Minister’s hands-on approach and emphasis on collaboration among various departments serve as a testament to the government’s dedication to ensuring that Bihar’s most culturally significant festival is celebrated without any hitches, allowing worshippers to focus solely on their spiritual practices.
As preparations continue, the anticipation surrounding Chhath Puja builds, and the government’s proactive measures aim to foster an atmosphere of devotion and community spirit. With a focus on safety, cleanliness, and effective management, the Patna district administration is poised to facilitate a meaningful and joyous celebration for all those participating in this revered festival.
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