Mahendranagar (Dhanusha): With the conclusion of Deepawali, the festival of lights, preparations for the upcoming Chhath festival are in full swing in the Tarai Madhes districts, including Dhanusha.

Local communities and organizations are actively involved in decorating various lakes and ponds in Janakpurdham in anticipation of the Chhath festival. The cleaning of the banks of ponds, lakes, and rivers is underway to construct the Chhath ghats.

Dr. Rajendra Bimal emphasized the special significance of the Chhath festival in the Tarai Madhes region. Notable locations such as Gangasagar Pond, Dhanush Sagar Pond, Argaja Pond, Maharasagar, Ratnasagar, Gordhoi, Aragajasar, Nocha Pokhari, Matkoraba Pokhari, and Dudhmati Ghat, along with the riverside areas, are being adorned in Janakpurdham, the historic city of Mithilanchal.

The bustling market reflects the increasing number of people participating in Chhath celebrations each year, with crowds seen purchasing necessary items for the festival. Local resident Prameshwar Saha noted a rise in the prices of festival-related goods compared to previous years.

While the main day of the Chhath festival is on November 19 this year, the associated rituals commence three days earlier for those observing the festival.

Simultaneously, preparations for Chhath have also kicked off in Birgunj. Special decorations are underway at ponds and lakes to create Chhath ghats for the various rituals and offerings associated with the festival. The cleaning and adornment of local sites such as Ghadiarba pond, Nagawapokhari, Chhapakaiya Pokhari, Shreepur, and Ranighat pond are part of the festive preparations.