“Chhath Puja is one of the most auspicious festivals for us, Biharis. It is dedicated to Lord Surya and during four days, all our family members keep a fast that lasts from sunrise to sunset. The timings of Suryodaya (sunrise) and Suryast (Sunset) are highly significant during Chhath Puja. We offer Arghya to the setting Sun in a river or pond.

I have great memories of cooking for the festival in my grandmother’s kitchen. Gangajal is used for cooking and food is prepared on a traditional clay chulha.

We are allowed to consume only Satvik food (without onion and garlic) and prepare the meals with the utmost hygiene and eat only after taking a bath.

There is no idol worship for this festival. We just pray to sun God for the prosperity of our family.

Although there are many rituals and mythological stories behind the festival, I always learnt that these festivities are to ensure the well being of people and it’s an experience in itself.”