Nitish Kumar Offers Morning Aarti on Chhath Festival, Prays for Bihar’s Prosperity
November 20, 2023, PATNA : Bihar’s Chief Minister, Nitish Kumar, participated in a solemn morning aarti to mark the auspicious occasion of Chhath, one of the most revered festivals in the state. The CM, along with his family, performed the aarti to the rising Lord Bhaskar (Sun God) at his official residence, 1 Anne Marg, in Patna. This heartfelt prayer was for the happiness, peace, and prosperity of the people of Bihar.
Chhath, celebrated predominantly in Bihar, Jharkhand, and parts of Uttar Pradesh, is a festival dedicated to worshiping the Sun God, known as Lord Bhaskar, and his consort, Usha. It’s a celebration of gratitude for the Sun’s life-sustaining energy and is observed with devotion by millions across the region. The occasion involves fasting, bathing in holy rivers, and performing rituals at sunrise and sunset.
Chhath Festival: A Sacred Tradition for Biharis
Chhath Puja holds immense religious and cultural significance for Biharis. The four-day festival, which begins with the Nahai Khai and culminates with the evening offerings to the setting Sun, is a demonstration of the community’s devotion to the elements that sustain life. The worship of Lord Bhaskar is considered a way of seeking blessings for health, prosperity, and the well-being of both individuals and the community.
For Bihar, this festival is more than a religious observance; it’s an occasion that unites people from all walks of life. Whether in rural villages or urban centers, Chhath brings people together, showcasing the region’s deep-rooted spiritual practices and communal harmony.
Nitish Kumar’s Personal Participation in the Aarti
Bihar CM Nitish Kumar’s involvement in Chhath Puja is symbolic of his deep respect for the traditions of the state and his connection with the people of Bihar. On this particular day, he offered prayers to Lord Bhaskar, seeking divine blessings not only for his family but for the well-being of the entire state. Nitish Kumar’s participation in the morning aarti is a display of his personal and public devotion to the festival, which resonates with Biharis at home and abroad.
Following the aarti, the CM extended his wishes to the people of Bihar, urging them to embrace the values of peace, unity, and prosperity. His prayers reflected the themes of the festival, calling for collective progress and the continued development of the state. Nitish Kumar’s message reinforced his commitment to the cultural and spiritual fabric of Bihar.
The Role of Bihar’s Government in Promoting Chhath Celebrations
Under Nitish Kumar’s leadership, the state government has taken significant steps to improve the infrastructure and facilities around Chhath celebrations. In recent years, the government has invested in cleaning and maintaining river ghats, ensuring safety during the rituals, and providing adequate lighting and sanitation during the festival. The aim is to create an environment where devotees can safely and comfortably observe the traditions.
Chhath has grown in scale and significance, and the government has recognized the need for supporting the community in its religious observances. The CM’s involvement in these celebrations is not just a personal gesture; it also underlines his administration’s focus on integrating cultural traditions into the state’s governance and development plans.
A Moment of Unity: Chhath’s Growing Influence
Chhath is a festival that transcends geographical boundaries. Although it is most closely associated with Bihar, its observance has expanded across the country. Major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata witness large-scale Chhath celebrations, and many non-Biharis also participate in the rituals, highlighting the festival’s national significance.
The growing prominence of Chhath has brought increased attention to the cultural heritage of Bihar. While the state has faced challenges in terms of development, the unity displayed during Chhath Puja stands as a testament to Bihar’s resilience and spiritual strength. The increasing participation of the public—both Bihari and non-Bihari—has made Chhath a celebration of unity, devotion, and hope.
Nitish Kumar’s Vision for Bihar’s Future
While Chhath celebrations bring people together in devotion, they also serve as a reminder of the need for collective efforts toward the state’s progress. Nitish Kumar, in his address following the aarti, reiterated his vision of Bihar’s development and prosperity. The CM emphasized the importance of working together to overcome challenges, with a focus on enhancing infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
In his message, he also acknowledged the contributions of the people of Bihar, both at home and abroad, and called for continued efforts to improve the quality of life for all residents. The festival’s focus on peace and prosperity aligns with the CM’s broader agenda for sustainable growth and development in the state.
The Cultural Significance of Chhath in Modern Times
As Bihar continues to evolve, the Chhath festival remains a vital part of its cultural identity. The traditions of Chhath, with their deep spiritual roots, are a constant source of strength and unity for Biharis. In a world that is becoming increasingly modern and fast-paced, Chhath serves as a reminder of the enduring importance of faith, family, and community.
For Nitish Kumar, the Chhath festival is more than just a religious occasion; it’s a moment to connect with the people of Bihar, affirming his role as a leader who values and respects the cultural and spiritual traditions of the state.