"Glory To Chhathi Maiya": PM Modi Extends Wishes On Chhath Puja

Chhath Puja, a significant Hindu festival, is celebrated annually by devotees offering prayers to Sun God Surya Dev and his consort Chhathi Maiya. The third day of the celebration, which has already taken place, holds deep spiritual importance, especially for the role of a humble plant - sugarcane.

Sugarcane, with its lush green stalks, represents the essence of Earth's abundance and nourishment. It is considered a symbol of purity, sweetness, and the sweetness of life, making it a fitting offering to Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya. The tall, jointed stalks of sugarcane signify growth, resilience, and unity, reflecting the values of family and community.

This revered plant is offered during the Sandhya Arghya, a ritual performed in the evening on the third day of Chhath Puja, when devotees present water and prayers to the setting sun. In some traditions, two sugarcane stalks are intertwined in a symbolic arch above the prasad and diyas, signifying the divine connection between heaven and Earth, illustrating the bond between humanity and the cosmic energy of the Sun.

Apart from its spiritual significance, sugarcane also provides a much-needed energy boost during the waterless fast observed by Chhath Puja devotees. The juice extracted from the plant's stalks is revered for its natural sweetness and nourishment, offering sustenance to those observing the sacred customs.