Ranchi: Chhath Puja is not merely a festival of faith; it is a symbol of democratic awareness, women’s empowerment, family unity, social harmony, and environmental consciousness in Indian society. The festival goes beyond religious rituals, establishing a balance between society and nature.
Women predominantly serve as the main practitioners of Chhath. They observe fasts, discipline, and penance for the welfare of their family and society. No priest or intermediary is required; the devotee herself conducts the entire ritual. This makes Chhath not just a celebration of devotion but also a festival of strength, self-control, and moral discipline.
The festival emphasizes family and community participation. Everyone, from children to elders, takes an active part. Offerings are traditionally prepared on earthen stoves using local ingredients, reflecting both cleanliness and environmental sensitivity. The ritual of offering prayers to the Sun signifies acceptance of the cycle of life and labor while promoting natural balance and environmental protection.
Chhath Puja also serves as a social protest against caste, class, and gender discrimination. People from all strata — Brahmins, Dalits, Adivasis, and backward classes — stand together equally at the riverbanks. The distribution of offerings is impartial, fostering a sense of participation and equality in society.
Although urban areas have seen deviations from traditional simplicity through private pools and elaborate decorations, the festival continues to be celebrated enthusiastically in Bihar, Jharkhand, and eastern Uttar Pradesh with the cooperation of society and local authorities.
Experts note that Chhath Puja is not merely an act of devotion but a living example of social equality, folk consciousness, and environmental awareness. The festival conveys the message that the Sun is not only a source of light but also of equality, justice, and life itself.
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