Hari R. Soni

Victoria’s Madeshi Community is gearing up to celebrate Chhath Puja 2024, a revered and ancient festival dedicated to the worship of the Sun God. Ranjit Shah, President of the Madeshi Community of Victoria (MCV), has officially invited all devotees to join this grand spiritual event, which will take place on November 7th and 8th, 2024 at the Australian Nepalese Multicultural Centre (ANMC) in Diggers Rest.

Significance of Chhath Puja: Chhath Puja is one of the most important festivals in the states of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Nepal’s Terai region, and holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. It is a four-day-long celebration marked by rituals of purity, fasting, and offerings to the Sun God, Surya, who is believed to bestow life, health, and prosperity on all living beings. The Sun God is worshiped as the source of energy and life, and Chhath Puja is seen as an occasion to express gratitude for his blessings.

The festival’s name, “Chhath,” is derived from the word “Shashthi,” meaning the sixth day, which is when the main worship rituals are conducted.

 Rituals and Schedule

The two main rituals that form the heart of the Chhath Puja are:

1. Sandhya Arghya (Evening Offering) –  This offering is made to the setting sun, symbolizing the end of the day and the hope for renewal. It’s on November 7th, 2024
2. Usha Arghya (Morning Offering) – The final ritual is offered to the rising sun, symbolizing new beginnings and the dawn of hope. It’s being celebrated on November 8th, 2024

The venue for this year’s event will be the serene riverbank at the Australian Nepalese Multicultural Centre (ANMC) in Diggers Rest. The peaceful pond setting will enhance the spiritual significance of the offerings, as devotees stand in the water to offer their prayers to both the setting and rising sun.

 Origin and History: Chhath Puja traces its origins back to ancient times, where it was believed to be performed by Draupadi and the Pandavas during the Mahabharata era. The festival symbolizes purity, simplicity, and devotion. It is also connected with Karna, the son of Surya, who was a major warrior in the Mahabharata. Over centuries, Chhath Puja has evolved as a cultural and spiritual event bringing communities together.

Community Participation and Coordination: The Multicultural Community of Victoria (MCV) is fully supporting this event, and Dependra Chaudhary, from the organizing committee, is the event coordinator. He will be available to provide all necessary assistance and ensure the event runs smoothly. The celebration is expected to unite the diverse community of Victoria in a display of cultural devotion and shared heritage.

More updates, including exact timings and further details, will be announced as the event approaches. For any inquiries, devotees are encouraged to contact Dependra Chaudhary.

A Festival of Devotion and Unity: Chhath Puja is more than just a religious festival; it is a celebration of nature, spirituality, and the power of community. As always, this year’s event promises to strengthen bonds within the community while honouring an age-old tradition that has been passed down through generations.

For more information and updates, keep following the event announcements from MCV.