The industrial and agricultural landscapes of Haryana took on a distinct cultural hue today as the sounds of “Chhathi Maiya” songs echoed along the state’s water bodies.
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Yamuna Gatherings in Sonipat: Thousands converged at the dedicated Chhath ghats along the Yamuna River. In Sonipat, the administration had cleared and illuminated over a dozen sites to accommodate the massive influx of devotees. Solar lights and temporary tents were set up to assist families during their overnight vigil.
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Canal Rituals in Karnal: In districts far from the Yamuna, like Karnal and Panipat, the Western Jamuna Canal served as the primary site. Local authorities regulated water flow to ensure safety for those standing in the water. Divers and NDRF teams were stationed at various points as a precautionary measure.
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The Ritual of Giving: The Sandhya Arghya (evening offering) began precisely around 5:40 PM, aligned with the local sunset. Devotees offered cow milk and water to the sun, symbolizing a gesture of letting go and gratitude for the day’s completion.
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Purvanchali Influence: The growing presence of the Purvanchali community in Haryana’s industrial belts has made Chhath one of the most widely celebrated festivals in the state. Local markets in Sonipat and Karnal reported record sales of sugarcane, coconuts, and bamboo baskets over the last 48 hours.
Community Sentiment
“Standing in the cold water of the canal doesn’t feel difficult when you are surrounded by so much faith. For us, this is not just a ritual; it’s a way to stay connected to our roots while living in Haryana. We are grateful to the local neighbors who helped us decorate the ghat,” said a devotee at the Karnal canal front.
