Main Day of Chhath Festival Today: Devotees Offer Argha to the Setting Sun

Kathmandu, October 27

Nepal celebrates the main day of the Chhath festival today with devotees across the country offering Argha (ritual offering) to the setting sun, marking one of the most sacred moments of the four-day festival dedicated to the Sun God, Surya.

On this main day, devotees gather along riverbanks, ponds, and lakes to worship the setting sun with deep devotion and gratitude. Early tomorrow morning, they will offer Argha to the rising sun, symbolizing the completion of the festival and renewal of life and energy.

Recognizing the significance of the occasion, the Government of Nepal has declared a public holiday today to allow citizens to participate in the celebrations. Devotees will stay awake through the night, preparing for the sunrise prayers and rituals that conclude the festival.

In the Kathmandu Valley, worship sites have been beautifully prepared at Gaurighat, Kamal Pokhari, Bishnumati River, Nakkhu, Gahana Pokhari, and Kupondole, among other locations, for devotees to offer prayers and Argha this evening.

Traditionally celebrated in the Terai region, Chhath Puja has now become a festival of national unity, embraced by people from the hills and Himalayan regions as well. The growing participation reflects Nepal’s cultural diversity, social harmony, and spiritual devotion.

According to Hindu belief, performing Chhath rituals with sincerity and purity brings prosperity, good health, and family well-being, while helping to wash away sorrow and negativity.

Devotees observing the Chhath fast maintain strict purity and discipline, consuming only satvik (pure) food from the fourth day of the waxing moon in the month of Kartik. Many even begin abstaining from garlic, onions, and other tamasic foods after Kojagrat Purnima, emphasizing the festival’s deep spiritual and purifying essence.