Venita Gomes
Chhath Puja was celebrated yesterday at Miramar Beach, in Panjim, and saw the participation of several women, their children and families.
In recent years, many people have settled in Goa for work and business purposes. And so, one can find many of them participating in Chhath Puja, a festival popular in Bihar, Jharkhand, Nepal etc.
Chhath Puja is performed to honour the Sun god, because the Sun is considered the source of energy and life on Earth, and through which, devotees believe they can attain blessings.
Chhath Puja is observed by women seeking unity and togetherness in their families, while also serving as an opportunity to bring the entire family together.
Devotees perform the puja with the intention of 'purifying' themselves, and obtaining blessings and prosperity for their families, and especially their children.
Several food offerings are also made to the Sun god seeking his blessings and protection.
People pray for their businesses, marriages, children and financial well-being through various rituals, all of which are performed with deep devotion.