Chhath Puja Festival – Ancient Hindu Vedic festival

Devoted to the Sun God, Indians celebrated their thanksgiving festival locally known as Chhath Puja, on the 26th of October 2017. Chhath Puja is a prominent festival for the North Indian state of Bihar and those who stayed in Bodhgaya hotels the likes of Oaks Bodhgaya were able to take part in this grand festival which is noted for its extravagant rituals, colourful display of dresses and music.

This festival usually falls on the 6th day of the Hindu calendar month Kartika. The fervour around the puja is marked by fasting throughout the day, bathing in the holy waters of the River Ganges and worshipping the Sun God. Those who observe the fast are not allowed to eat or even drink water and at the end of the fast, the entire family is fed puris, grapefruit, coconut and freshly prepared rice.