Forbesganj/Araria, October 26 . The four-day ritual of Chhath Puja, the great festival of folk faith, concluded in a devotional atmosphere with ‘Kharna’ on the second day today, Sunday. In Forbesganj, Chhathvartis performed traditional Kharna Puja in the evening after observing Nirja fast throughout the day.

On this important day celebrated on Kartik Shukla Panchami Tithi, fasting women prepare prasad of jaggery kheer and roti with mango wood on earthen stove with complete purity. After sunset this special prasad was offered to Chhathi Maiya and Sun God.

With the reception of Kharna Prasad, the 36-hour rigorous ‘Nirjala’ (without food and water) fast of the fasting women began, which will end on Tuesday after offering Arghya to the rising Sun.

Preparations for Kharna had started since morning in various areas of Forbesganj. Special care was taken of purity and cleanliness regarding puja in homes. Kharna Prasad is first consumed by the fasting person, after which it is distributed among other family members and friends.

The third day of Chhath Puja is tomorrow, Monday, when the devotees will offer Arghya to the setting (setting) Sun. For this, preparations are in the final stage at all the Chhath Ghats of Forbesganj. After the completion of Kharna, now everyone’s eyes are fixed on tomorrow’s evening Arghya.

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/ Prince Kumar