From the picturesque banks of Hussain Sagar to the tranquil ponds in Kukatpally and Miyapur, the vibrant spirit of Chhath Puja is poised to unite thousands of devotees across Hyderabad. While Deepavali often signals the end of major festive seasons for many parts of India, the devout celebrations continue with fervor in states like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and West Bengal, and now, increasingly in cities far beyond, including Hyderabad. Here, the Bihari community meticulously upholds and celebrates this cherished tradition. This year, the grand four-day festival is scheduled to illuminate the city from October 25 to 28.
Understanding Chhath Puja
Chhath Puja is a profound festival dedicated to Surya, the Sun God, and his divine consort, Ushas, the radiant first light of dawn. Devotees participate in this celebration to express deep gratitude for the Sun’s boundless energy, which sustains all life on Earth. The name ‘Chhath’ itself, meaning ‘sixth’, refers to its observance on the sixth day following Deepavali. The core rituals involve offering heartfelt prayers to both the setting and the rising sun, a beautiful testament to life’s cycles.
Two Decades of Chhath Puja in Hyderabad
Over the past two decades, Chhath Puja celebrations in Hyderabad have blossomed, witnessing a remarkable surge in participation and grandeur. Spearheading these extensive arrangements are two dedicated organizations: the Jan Seva Sangh, led by former Director-General of Prisons Vinoy Kumar Singh, and the Bihar Association Hyderabad, headed by its president, Hareram Singh. These groups diligently collaborate with the Telangana government each year to ensure all necessary facilities are in place at the various puja sites, guaranteeing a seamless and spiritual experience for everyone.
City-wide Preparations
In anticipation of the festival, the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), acting under the guidance of the Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MAUD) Department, has officially approved Chhath Puja celebrations at 29 distinct locations across the city. The civic body has issued clear directives to its zonal officers, instructing them to undertake thorough cleaning of the sites and to arrange essential amenities such as electricity, proper lighting, safe footsteps, dedicated stages, protective pandals, and robust security measures. These efforts are crucial to ensure the smooth and sacred conduct of all rituals from October 26 to 28.
The Four Sacred Days of Rituals
The Chhath Puja festival unfolds through a deeply spiritual four-day cycle:
The first day, known as Nahay Khay (meaning ‘Bath and Eat’), commences with devotees taking a purifying holy dip in a river or a designated pond. This act symbolizes the cleansing of both body and soul. Following this, a satvik meal is prepared and consumed, typically comprising humble yet nutritious dishes like rice, dal, and pumpkin.
The second day, observed as Kharna, involves a rigorous day-long fast where devotees abstain from even a single sip of water. This intense fast is broken only after sunset, with special offerings of gur ka kheer (a sweet delicacy made from jaggery and rice) and various fresh fruits.
On the third day, the fast continues, culminating in the revered Sandhya Arghya (Evening Offerings). Thousands gather at riverbanks or ponds, standing waist-deep in water to offer their prayers to the glorious setting sun. Offerings, known as arghya, include an assortment of fruits, sugarcane, and thekua, a traditional sweet crafted from wheat flour and jaggery.
The fourth and concluding day, Usha Arghya (Morning Offerings), is dedicated to the worship of the magnificent rising sun at dawn. This final offering is a powerful symbol of hope, renewal, and the enduring continuity of life itself, marking the culmination of the sacred observances.
Festive Travel Rush at Railway Stations
During this festive period, railway stations across Hyderabad witness an extraordinary surge in passenger traffic, particularly on trains bound for Bihar. Recently, observers noted massive crowds at Secunderabad Railway Station, especially for Train No. 12791, the Secunderabad–Danapur Express. Despite the train being scheduled for a 9:25 a.m. departure, it arrived on Platform No. 8 around 8:40 a.m., sparking an immediate rush. Passengers without reservations, who had purchased general tickets for approximately ₹450, surged towards the general coaches, famously known as Deen Dayalu coaches. Anticipating this heavy demand, Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel were strategically deployed on the platform. They managed the crowds by forming queues and allowing passengers to board in a controlled, orderly fashion to prevent any chaotic situations.
The Grueling 33-Hour Journey
Each general coach, designed for a seating capacity of around 100, was crammed with over 300 passengers, far exceeding its intended limit. Many, like Ramesh Kumar, a restaurant waiter heading to Saharsa, found themselves standing near the coach door for the entire arduous 33-hour journey back home. “I tried booking tickets a month in advance, but everything was on the waiting list,” Ramesh recounted. “Rather than face a fine for traveling without a confirmed seat, I opted for the general coach. It will be incredibly difficult, but I’m willing to endure it to be with my wife and children.” His words echo the dedication and sacrifices many make to partake in this cherished family festival.