Chhath Puja is Bihar's major festival where devotees pay homage to the Sun God, engaging in prayers and fasting rituals that span over four days. The significance of this festival is marked by various customs, including sacred dips in holy rivers and offerings made to the rising and setting sun known as 'arghya.' The fasting and most of the rituals are done by womenfolk. The first day of Chhat Puja is called Nahay Khay. 

On reaching Savita Ji’s home in Parsauna Village to witness the puja, we were graciously welcomed by her family, where we experienced the rituals associated with Nahay Khay. This ritual involves the preparation of rice and bottle gourd sabzi that is cooked without onions, garlic or tomatoes in a pristine environment. We had the privilege of observing the entire cooking process of this simple meal. Other accompaniments included dal, cauliflower-potato curry, fritters and yogurt.

Once the food was reverently offered to the Almighty, Savita Ji herself partook in it, signifying its sanctity. We then joined the rest of the family for the meal. Everyone were soaked in the festive spirit and eagerly awaiting the upcoming rituals. 

As the evening approached, we ventured to the riverbank where the Chhath Puja set to unfold. The preparations were in full swing, with the village chef overseeing the arrangements. 

An elaborate Litti Chokha meal was organized for the community serving there. We were graciously invited to partake in this feast. Witnessing the collective efforts of the community in preparing this traditional dish in large quantities was heartwarming.

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Design and filmed by Rahul Singh
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Text by Swetaleena Nayak

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