The four-day festival of devotion and solar worship, Chhath Puja, commenced with deep spiritual fervor on Friday, November 13, 2026, marked by the inaugural ritual of Nahay-Khay. Across the nation, devotees embarked on the rigorous observance dedicated to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya. Leaders across political spheres conveyed their best wishes to citizens, paying tribute to the discipline and resolve of fasting devotees.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi Felicitates Devotees
Marking the beginning of the celebrations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached out to citizens on the social media platform X. He highlighted the festival as a profound manifestation of public faith and dedicated solar reverence.
Expressing deep respect for those undertaking the severe penance, the Prime Minister conveyed his warm wishes, stating,
"Heartiest greetings to all citizens on the commencement of the four-day sacred ritual of public faith and sun worship, the grand festival Chhath."He offered his respects to all devotees observing the fast and prayed for the divine blessings of Chhathi Maiya upon everyone.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Highlights Spiritual Heritage
Joining in the felicitations, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh extended greetings on the occasion of the sacred Nahay-Khay ritual. He described Chhath as an exceptional symbol of purity, deep reverence, and timeless spiritual customs.
Emphasizing the connection to India's cultural roots, the Defence Minister noted that worshiping the Sun God and praying to Chhathi Maiya embodies ancient traditions. He offered his salutations to all fasting individuals and prayed that society is blessed with good health, peace, prosperity, and the fulfillment of all noble aspirations.
Delhi Prepares 11-Kilometer Ghat Along Munak Canal
Sharing details of local administrative arrangements, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta greeted the public on the first ritual of the festival. She noted that the national capital is hosting grand celebrations this year, featuring extensive civic amenities for devotees.
To ensure comfortable and devoted worship, an 11-kilometer-long stretch of beautifully arranged Chhath ghats has been prepared along both banks of the Munak Canal. The Chief Minister stated that this infrastructure aims to allow devotees to perform their rituals smoothly, offering prayers that every household enjoys well-being and prosperity.
Chief Ministers of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan Send Good Wishes
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav also greeted citizens, expressing hopes that the auspicious festival ushers in peace, good health, and joy for all households under the divine grace of the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya.
Similarly, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma extended warm wishes on the first ritual, Nahay-Khay. He prayed to Lord Bhaskar and Chhathi Maiya for widespread happiness, robust health, and holistic prosperity across society. The four-day observance will witness devotees observing intense fasts leading up to the evening and morning offerings to the Sun.
