November 5, 2024 12:28 PM

Chhath Puja begins as devotees gather across northern India, Nepal for four-day festival

The four-day Chhath Puja, an annual festival celebrated in northern and eastern India as well as in Nepal, began on Tuesday. The first day, known as Nahay Khay, marks the beginning of the festival with a cleansing ritual in preparation for the days ahead. Day two is observed as Kharna, followed by the main Chhath Puja on the third day, and the festival concludes with Usha Arghya—the offering of prayers to the rising sun—on the final day. Chhath Puja is known for its strict rituals, includi...